TallulahTooGood

New Blog

2009-09-24T10:05:00.000-07:00

Come see my new blog..
"Pushing Pixels"

You Just Gotta Stop By!!!

2009-09-03T09:03:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Fridays!!

2009-07-31T12:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Fun Friday!!

What a beautiful day here in south Cali. A balmy 74 degrees mixed with a gorgeous dose of the fabulously famous California sunshine. The only way this day could be any better is if I grab my book, my dog and head to the beach, which is a definite possibility at this moment. Maybe I’ll just soak up a bit of radiation while I nap. I’m so tired and I have absolutely no idea why, I slept well last night but I would love creeping back to bed to slip back into a snooze fest until dinner. Damn, I’m a lazy ass.

I spent yesterday with my sons. The oldest one has a beautiful condo one town over that I absolutely love. His cute little condo is set amidst little streams, waterfalls and tons of stunning green flora. One can’t help but feel calm and serene walking through the gate into this mini rain forest of sorts. I love it. It’s fabulous. So, while my oldest slept,

my youngest decided to make deviled eggs,

I hid away outside, under a frond, listening to the birds and reading my book.

This book I am now reading, Still Alice by Lisa Genova and, wow, this book is killer. It’s all about Alice (duh), and her sudden descent into early onset Alzheimer's disease. This book will tug at your heart from the very beginning. Granted, I am only midway through but it’s had me all misty several times. Pick it up, it’s amazing.

Gypsy Couture is releasing a grab bag on Saturday, August 1st over at DigiChicks and you all know how much I LOVE GC.

Just uploaded my layout for Round Three in the BOTCT, don’t forget to stop by to vote on Monday or Tuesday.

Also, Digital Freebies is taking the month of August off (as far as challenges go, kits will still be released) but wait until you see all the new goodies come September. And, keep your eyes peeled for the opening of Polka Dot Plum coming to a dot com near you very soon.

Well, I'm off to finish up a few layouts or perhaps sneak in that nap I wanted. Catch ya'll later.

Wednesday Already?

2009-07-29T07:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Wednesday!!
I am super sleepy this morning. Just didn’t seem to sleep well last night, for some reason I couldn’t slip into that deliciously deep slumber that makes all right with the world when I finally emerge refreshed and renewed. No such luck for me this a.m. When all has quieted down around here, most likely I’ll haul my badonkie back to bed. I love my bed. I LOVE it. It’s both soft and firm at the same time, it’s covered with an cozy comforter I could get lost it, 4 spongy pillows are so inviting not to mention my music, movies and magazines (oh my) are within reach. And it smells like lavender. Love it. Definitely going to spend a bit more time there today.

I just finished reading ‘No One You Know’ by Michelle Richmond, who also wrote The Year of Fog last night. Loved it. Loved. It. I loved her vocabulary, exigent and clever but not supercilious. It’s an easy read; I put it away in about a day. Without doubt, a great idea for a beach book. If you haven’t read The Year of Fog yet, grab it, it’s another good one.

I haven’t been posting too many layouts lately because I am working with Polka Dot Plum on the new opening so all layouts are awaiting for that. Also, we’re on week 3 of the BOTCT which is going to be a tough one and there’s a few new kits being released soon. Good thing I thoroughly enjoy putting together layouts.

This page and the one below were my entries for the BOTCT

And this page was made with Serendipity by Karen Lewis and it's gorgeous. Beautiful kit.

Well all, I’m going to post, cruise a bit and hit the sheets.

( =

YaY! It's Thursday!!

2009-07-23T11:30:00.000-07:00

I love Thursdays and you know why!! It's Gypsy Couture Day!!! YaY!!
How absolutely cool is this kit????

Get it here.

Get this Here.

Get this here.

Run right over and pick them up.

BBL.

Wonderful Wednesday!

2009-07-22T10:10:00.000-07:00

“What you are is what you have been.
What you’ll be is what you do now.”
- Buddha"

Hope you all are having a wonderful week. Can you believe it's the middle of the week already? Life just speeds along, doesn't it? Wow.

So, these past few days I have been in search for a doctor. I found and fell in love with my doctor (who happens to be a female) during a trip to the emergency room several years back and I've been with her ever since. Thing is, she only practices in clinics and the one we were last came together has closed due to no money. I finally tracked her down to another clinic across town only to find out she's on maternity leave.....until January. Congratulations to Dr Amanda but sucks to be me. I called around town in search of a physician I felt a connection to and could see me NOW. No luck. I just didn't know what to do, I was about to bite the bullet and crawl back to my GP from the long ago past, who I liked with the exception of he's a man and his front desk girls suck. They were so rude to me on the phone about 6 years ago (yes, I can hold a grudge) that I wanted to drive over and smack them all.
Thank goodness the nurse from Dr Amanda called me back singing the praises of this Dr Cervantes. I prefer a woman treating my woman parts but, at this moment, I'll settle for a sensitive male. Crossing my fingers but my appoint is not until August.
Plenty of time to bail. Hee he I won't.

I am excited today because a few books I've ordered from Amazon should be here. YaY!! These 3 books are art books, 1 of which I was turned on to from Emily's page, if you've never visited her page, it's a must, it's absolutely fantastic. I found the book 'Art Journals and Creative Healing: Restoring the Spirit Through Self-Expression' on her site which linked me to Amazon where I found 2 other art books I had to have. 'Taking Flight: Inspiration And Techniques To Give Your Creative Spirit Wings' and 'Life Is a Verb: 37 Days to Wake Up, Be Mindful, and Live Intentionally'. I am so excited. They're supposed to arrive this afternoon and I can' wait to slip under my covers and lose myself in these books. My name is Tula and I am an addict, a book addict.

Well, I'm off to work on a few more layouts.
Catch later.
( =

And I Say To Myself..

2009-07-20T15:24:00.000-07:00

What A Wonderful World

Happy Monday. Hope your weekend was as fabulous as mine. Yesterday, the husband and I cruised on down to Pasadena to meet my darling daughter for brunch and a matinee. Naturally we dined at The Cheesecake Factory. Absolutely yum. If you've never treated yourself to this fantastic restaurant, it's definitely something to add to your 'things to do' list. The food is beyond delicious and the portions are HUGE. I guarantee you will be taking half of your entree home. Lauren munched on Eggs Benedict, her dad had some omelet thingy and I scarfed down half of my grilled chicken and avocado club. So good. I was thinking about skipping the cheesecake until that sneaky little server of ours mentioned pineapple upside down cheesecake. Of course, I caved. Gotta tell ya, it was even better than imagined. Hmmmmm

Next, we took a half mile hike down Colorado Blvd taking in the sites. Pasadena is a gorgeous town. A mix of old and new architecture. So much beauty to take in.

The walk would have been so much more enjoyable had it not been around 105 degrees. I thought I was going to die of heat stroke when, finally, we arrived at the theater. YaY!

Beautiful theater and I LOVED the movie! I am a gigantic Harry Potter fan, read all the books at least 3xs each, seen all the other movies countless times. Love them and this film did not disappoint. There was a few bits and pieces here and there I would of changed had JK called me to direct or write the screenplay but, since she did not, I give them props for a super movie. If you have young children, I would suggest skipping this episode, parts are very scary. Creeped me out. But, all in all, I give it a 4 out of 5.

Strolled back toward the parking center, convinced Lauren to buy a hat then sat and enjoyed a bit of sun, an ice blended white chocolate mocha and a bit of chit-chat about the movie. All too soon it was time to part, Lauren heading south and us going north. I enjoy my time with her and miss her so much. We all had a great time.

Hit the grocery store on the way home, tossed dinner in the oven, checked some of my favorite sites then crawled in bed to finish my book, "Love The One You're With" by Emily Griffin. Great book, a definite read for sure. Then I was out like a light.

Time to finish up a few layouts. Remember to vote for us, Suzy QTs over at Digital Scrap Addicts for the Battle of The Creative Teams. Vote vote vote.

( =

Please Vote Vote Vote!!!

2009-07-20T11:48:00.000-07:00

Please vote for us, Suzy's QTs
Thank you.
( =

Wow! Check me out!!

2009-07-19T20:15:00.000-07:00

This has been the best day ever!! I'll write about the entire day later but I am so excited I had to post this now. I made the GSO today!! Cool, huh?
With this layout..

If you want to see, click Here

So cool.

Party On The Patio by Gypsy Couture

2009-07-16T09:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday!! It's that time of week again. YaY!! Gypsy Couture has a new release called Party On The Patio available now at Digi Chick.

Also, I have a goodie for you. This is the first QP I've done for GC so, please be kind.
( =

Click HERE

YaY me!

2009-07-16T05:27:00.000-07:00

Look what I won!! How cool is this? I can't wait to use it. If you like it, pop over to Scrap Orchard to pick up Cake & Ice Cream by Tracie Stroud.

Cool drawing prize at iHeartFaces

2009-07-15T09:02:00.000-07:00

Super yummy drawing prize over at iHeartFaces today. Go check it out.

iHeartFaces

Happy Monday!!

2009-07-13T09:21:00.000-07:00

I hope ya'll had a wonderful weekend. It's definitely July here in South Cali, the heat has rushed in strong. It's a bit hot for me. I'm spoiled, I love the warm everyday temp of 70-ish we usually enjoy around here. Thank God for ocean breezes. Speaking of the beach, spent a bit of yesterday hanging out, snapping a few shots and simply luxuriating in the beauty of the beach. Here are just a few photos..

I love taking photos, I wish I was better at it but I'm learning.

Have a super Monday.
( =

I <3 Faces ~ Week #27

2009-07-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

Both of these photos were taken yesterday as we were enjoying a beach day.

Sports in Action

Pets

I figure, if I feed it, it's a pet.

Jump over to iHeartFaces to peek at the amazing entries. Simply stunning.

Finally Friday

2009-07-10T09:47:00.001-07:00

I can't believe this week is finally over. Usually the day seems to just fly by but this one dragged on and on and on. Perhaps it's the constant updating on Michael Jackson's death and all the drama associated with it. I've been doing my best to switch channels whenever some scandalous tidbit is mentioned, I refuse to give an ear to the constant prattle. Instead, I wanted to share Maya Angelou's poem with you..

Beloveds, now we know that we know nothing, now that our bright and shining star can slip away from our fingertips like a puff of summer wind.

Without notice, our dear love can escape our doting embrace. Sing our songs among the stars and walk our dances across the face of the moon.

In the instant that Michael is gone, we know nothing. No clocks can tell time. No oceans can rush our tides with the abrupt absence of our treasure.

Though we are many, each of us is achingly alone, piercingly alone.

Only when we confess our confusion can we remember that he was a gift to us and we did have him.

He came to us from the creator, trailing creativity in abundance.

Despite the anguish, his life was sheathed in mother love, family love, and survived and did more than that.

He thrived with passion and compassion, humor and style. We had him whether we know who he was or did not know, he was ours and we were his.

We had him, beautiful, delighting our eyes.

His hat, aslant over his brow, and took a pose on his toes for all of us.

And we laughed and stomped our feet for him.

We were enchanted with his passion because he held nothing. He gave us all he had been given.

Today in Tokyo, beneath the Eiffel Tower, in Ghana's Black Star Square.

In Johannesburg and Pittsburgh, in Birmingham, Alabama, and Birmingham, England

We are missing Michael.

But we do know we had him, and we are the world.

And for stopping by I have a freebie for you.

Download here

I also wanted to share a couple of layouts with you as well..

Be sure to hit my poll before you leave and have a super duper weekend.

Much love,
Tula

Gypsy Couture releases Peace and Quiet

2009-07-09T06:39:00.001-07:00

Happy Thursday!!

I swear, one day I'll grow up to be a better blogger. I'm working on it. Such a simple thing to do, post a thought or two, upload some photos, exhibit a few new layouts, why can't I do it? Cause I just suck. Oh well..

Thursday's are one of my favorite days because there's usually a new release from the amazingly talented Lisa at Gypsy Couture. I love her stuff. This week's fabulous kit is called Peace & Quiet. Check out the gorgeousness below..

Amazing, isn't it? Here's what I did with it..

Hop over to The DigiChick to pick it up on sale.

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-04T18:42:00.000-07:00

“If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, ‘thank you,’ that would suffice.”
~ Meister Eckhart

I love this web site. Take a minute to check it out.
Zen Habits

What a gorgeous day it is. Sunny, warm, nice easy breeze blowing, the mountains are beautifully green and the ocean is a bright blue. Went shopping, filled up on some yummy produce then hit Target for a literary refill. I have a strange need to have three to four unread books adoringly batting their eyes at me from my nightstand. Okay, so I have a seriously odd thing for books. I picked up No One You Know by Michelle Richmond and Walking in Circles Before Lying Down by Merrill Markoe. At the moment I am re-reading Harry Potter, Half-Blood Prince in preparation for the July 15th release of the film. I can't wait

Then a quick trek to the beach which ended much sooner than I wanted but a tad too crowded for me. I'm okay with a horde or two but wall-to-wall blankets and towels is just too much. So, no photos from the seashore for me today. Maybe I'll give taking pics of the fireworks a go tonight. We'll see.

I completed a few more layouts. I've been browsing through the challenges over at Pixel Canvas and I love it there. If you haven't had a chance to stop by, be sure to make time cause it is definitely worth it. Very artistic. Here's mine..

Well, I'm off to toss some dinner at these people then take in the fireworks. Catch ya laterz.

( =

What Smoothie Are You?

2009-07-03T23:35:00.001-07:00

You Are a Pineapple Smoothie

You are adventurous and brave. You aren't afraid of much.
You are in love with new experiences. You are usually the first to try something.
You get bored rather easily, and you need to be challenged in life.
You are turbo charged. Most people find it impossible to keep up with you in any capacity.

What Flavor Smoothie Are You?

Gentle Afternoon by Gypsy Couture

2009-07-02T11:32:00.000-07:00

Hola. Can't believe it's Thursday already. Seriously, where does the time go? Just seems to whiz right by, doesn't it?

I love Thursdays because Gypsy Couture usually releases a new kit. Lisa is definitely one talented lady. This week's kit is called Gentle Morning..

I love her kits. Love them. I got to play with it a bit before its release and here is what I came up with..

Be sure to pop over to The Digi Chick to pick up this cute kit, it's even on sale right now.

I love visiting new forums (new to me anyway)and a little bit back I discovered Pixel Canvas. The challenges are fantastic and the talent is amazing. Just browsing through their galleries makes me a better 'artist'.

What do you think of my new blog design? My friend Kate did all for me. How cool is that? I love it. Love the color, love the design. I'm working on being a better blogger. Take a sec to visit her blog and say hello. Tell her Tula sent you.

Hope ya'll have a safe holiday.
( =

I'm back, baby!

2009-06-26T17:06:00.000-07:00

Wow. I’ve been away for a few days and the world seems to have completely changed while I was gone. The early departure of Michael Jackson deeply saddens me. I don’t remember a time when MJ wasn’t a part of my life. ABC was the first song I remember hearing from The Jackson 5 in 1970, I was 14 years old. My very first concert experience was at The Shrine with J5. I danced, roller skated, cried, cruised and who knows what else to MJ songs. I miss him already. Sorry to see you go MJ.

Tomorrow is my daughter’s 1 week anniversary. Hard to believe a week has passed already since the wedding. The day seemed to have flown by, all the prep, all the excitement, all the stress. It was a gorgeous event, sunny and warm. Lauren looked absolutely stunning and so very happy. My daughter is a married woman now. So hard to believe, when did she grow up?

Lauren

Lauren & her daddy

Lauren & Handsel & Steven (her brothers)

Lauren & Mike

First married kiss

Her dog-sitter bailed out, so I made the 3 hour journey to spend a bit of quality time with Rudy and Sadie. Love them, enjoyed the time I spent with them, and with Lauren and Mike but there is definitely no place like home.

Sadie, always quite and mellow

Rudy, always ready for action

Hiking with Rudy

I have tons of photos to scrap, I want to do an entire from first gown shopping to honeymoon album for them. Maybe I’ll have it finished by their first year anniversary.

Wow.

2009-06-21T10:45:00.000-07:00

The wedding was wonderful and she looked absolutely breath-taking. I'll update more next week as I'm off to Riverside to babysit my granddogs. That's a whole other story.

2009-06-18T09:49:00.001-07:00

I know I haven't updated in awhile, I just have tons of irons in the fire at the moment. Lauren's wedding is in two days so, I'm a tad stressy. I've extremely thankful she did not want a huge wedding and that she's a teacher therefore has the entire summer off. Makes it much easier to get all those last minute goodies done. I still need to pick up a pair of shoes to match my dress but other than that, I'm good.

Last night I finished up 5 layouts so I'm pretty much caught up with that. There's a few more I'd like to get done before tomorrow but I don't see that happening.

Gypsy Couture, along with MIss Vivi, have created this fun mega kit called Way Out Wild. Love it.

To grab this wonderful kit on sale, Go Here

I promise to be a better blogger beginning next week.
( =

Need Blog Help

2009-06-07T10:44:00.000-07:00

I seem to have messed my blog up and need help putting it right. I've been thinking about hiring someone to design a blog template and blinkie for me, I'll pay of course, for sometime but just never put out the request. Now, I am. I'd like someone to design a blog layout, pinkish or purple or even green, for me as well as a blinkie to match (that says, "Tula Collections"). If you're game, please email me at TallulahTooGood@gmail.com with a price and perhaps a link to your work. I really need my blog fixed ASAP. I'd like 3 columns, middle being the journal. Think you can help me? Please.

Super Cute Kit

2009-05-31T07:06:00.001-07:00

at Sunshine Studios.

How cute is this? It's called Summer Fun and it's available now. Click here to pop over and be one of the first to pick it up.

Thursday, Thursday, Thursday!

2009-05-28T09:41:00.000-07:00

Holiday’s throw my mind clock/calendar completely off. I keep thinking today is Friday when it is not. It’s Thursday.. Thursday..THURSDAY!!

Oh yeah, the show Wipe Out is on tonight. Have you seen this show yet? OMG! This show is horrendously funny. I sometimes have to turn it off because I end up laughing so hard. I have always found people falling beyond extremely hilarious. I can’t help it, I laugh so hard I might even pee a little. I try so hard to stay away from this show but it calls me almost as loudly as chocolate. I’ll have to watch.

I don’t think I slept well last night and I have the strangest dreams ever. I’m thinking about crawling back to bed for a few more winks. My dog loves napping on my bed, she’s hoping I slip away as well. We’ll see.

I did finish one layout yesterday, a scrap lift for DFF. It’s a great kit to work with; Sugarplum Paperie’s My Heart’s Song and Cucciola Design’s Cinderella.

I need to get my bum in gear and finish off a few kits I’ve started. Why I do that I have no clue, I start a kit, get it nearly finished and stop. I’m a bit of a coward I suppose. Looks like I’ll have a couple of days with no layouts due so, I’m going to get two kits finished my Monday. Yes.

( =
Peace and tons of love,
Tula

Happy Wonderful Wednesday!!

2009-05-27T08:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Wonderful Wednesday!!

Yes, I know it’s been awhile since I’ve updated but this time it wasn’t entirely my fault. The Verizon modem took a poo, leaving us without a connection for nearly a week. An entire week without the internet, wow, I nearly went insane. I was completely unaware of how very much I depend on the internet these days. Mostly for looking up information such as television schedule, movie show times, bank balance, word definitions, recipes and so on and so on. Verizon finally came through with a new modem so all is right in my world, at the moment anyway.

I don’t know why I can’t seem to update daily, it’s not as if I don’t have the time. There are tons of topics I could spew on and on about. It’s the getting going that’s so difficult for me. Once started, it’s not a problem to continue. Perhaps I should set aside a specific time to blog and hold myself to it. Yea, don’t bet your lunch money on me following through on that one. Well, I’m here now so..

Some super duper exciting news, a few of the amazingly fantastic scrappers from Digital Candy have gotten together and The Digi Scraps Drive In has been born. They have done a wonderful job so pop over and give it a peep. Bring your friends. Also, as this fun forum is just getting started, there is a designer call out. Such a great opportunity, pass it around.

I am so looking forward to this forum really starts rocking, I miss DC so much.

Gypsy Couture will be releasing another gorgeous kit tomorrow called Tickle My Fancy.

How stunning is this kit? I got to play with it a bit and here’s what I came up with..

Be sure to skip over to The DigiChick tomorrow and pick this kit up.

Also, make sure to stop in at Digital Freebies before the next Monday to pick up the May Club special where you can pick up two amazing kits (Spring At Last by Chrissy W & Little Mrs Liz) for ONLY $5.00. What a deal.

I put a couple pages together..

Isn't scrappin' fun?

Well ya'll, I suppose I've caught you up for a bit with what's going on with me. One more thing, I host a challenge over at Digital Freebies called Tuesdays With Tula. Please, hop over and play a bit with me. You might recognize this weeks topic.

Til later.
Peace & Lots of Love
Tula

Friday, May 15th

2009-05-15T16:56:00.000-07:00

I apologize for being such a bad blogger but, and yes this is my excuse, this month has been quite the roller coaster ride. Up, down and the around, a few times I wasn't sure which way I was headed. If you recall, I was completely jazzed about being selected as part of the CT for Digital Candy. No doubt you've all heard by now, Digital Candy is closing it doors today. So much for my very first CT position. It really sucks. It's bad enough I lost my opportunity but we all lost a wonderful forum to post and play in. All the CTs were amazing, the designers were cool and I love Kate and Rick. It's such a waste to see something so good fade away because of some stupid drama crap. I'm going to drop it here though because I am really upset and angry about the whole deal and I really don't feel like being pissy on a Friday night. Good-bye DC, I loved you so.

As I mentioned earlier, I am a guest CT for Gypsy Couture this month which released another gorgeous kit called 'Free By The Sea'. I absolutely love the kits Lisa comes out with and I feel so privileged to be able to work with them. Below is the new kit, image is linked so pop over and pick it up.

Here are two of the layouts I made with this beautiful kit.

I was very lucky to have Crystal from Crystal's Creations agree to add me to her CT. I've had the pleasure to work with a few of her kits which you can pick up here and, after Monday, here as well. The kit I just finished working with is called 'Jamieson's Jeans" and I love it. Check Scrappity-Doo-Dah on Monday to see the full kit.

And last, but by no means what-so-ever least, I won the photo challenge over at Digital Freebies where the prize was a CT spot. Since I've considered DFF my home forum for so long, I'm pretty happy about it. I also have a weekly challenge there called "Tuesday's With Tula" so please be sure to stop by and check it out. I grabbed the kit "A Mother's Love" by Verene Karolyi. It's gorgeous. Beautiful soft, romantic colors.

And here's my layout.

Don't forget to pick up the Friday freebie at DFF while you're there.

Hope ya'll have a wonderful weekend.
( =

Dark Day In Digi Town

2009-05-08T07:33:00.000-07:00

I suppose I should write about what's going on but I just don't feel like it. Perhaps later.

I do want to share with you a layout I did for Gypsy Couture as this month's guest CT. Although I do love all the kits, I had the opportunity to work with a new one called "Happy Makes The World Go Round" and it, like the others, are gorgeous.

And here's what I did with this beautiful kit..

Here's my entry into a CT challenge over at Digital Freebies Forum...

made with all Gypsy Couture products.

That's all for now but I'll be back.

~ Tula

Whet Your Pallet

2009-04-29T10:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Wednesday all. Here we are, midway through the week already not to mention this month is over in just a few days. Times flies.

I wanted to share with you my mini kit created for Digital Candy's Whet Your Pallet challenge. It's also available for download if you're so inclined..

Download Papers ~ *HERE*
Download Elements ~ *HERE*

I wanted to show you a few kits I picked up over at DC.

Below is a kit called Paisley & Polka Dots a collaboration between Creations by Rachael and Wimpychompers. It's very cute with fun colors. I won this kit in the Sherbert Dip layout contest. If you want to see my layout which won (by random drawing) pop over to the DC blog
and peek.

For participating in the Speed Scrap I earned a coupon for Viva Artistry and choose Romeo & Juliet pictured below. It's absolutely gorgeous.

These are only a few items I've received since posting at the Digital Candy. This weekend looks to be tons of fun, so come on over and play a bit with us.

Did you miss me?

2009-04-28T07:58:00.000-07:00

Have you wondered where I’ve been? Yes, I’ve been a tad busy. With Lauren’s wedding going full speed ahead, spraining my ankle (yes, it was, and is, a black and blue mess) and competing for a creative team position over at Digital Candy, I can truthfully say I’ve had my hands full a bit. It’s all worth it in the end, well, except the spraining my ankle part, can’t think of one good thing coming out of that incident. A lot of pain, whining, ice wraps, limping, hopping and begging for a little sympathy (of which I got none, hard audience here). I learned so much through my time spent at DC, I feel I’m a much better scrapper now. When I began scrapping about a year-ish ago and designed all my own papers and elements as well. For quite awhile I thought of myself as a good scrapper but, after being turned down by a couple CT calls, I realized while I was learning to make papers and ribbons and other elements, I wasn’t learning about placement, composition, coloring or any of the newest trends. By not using other people’s kits, I had severely limited myself to a certain style of scrapping. Without the ability to design a vast array of elements, I locked myself into the same old things. By working with the kits of others, I have opened up to the larger world of scrapping. And, I like it. So, there’s definitely good in being turned down by a couple CT calls I wanted, I’m a better scrapper because of it.

BTW, the one call I really wanted, I got. YaY me!! I am a Candy Girl!! I’m so excited!! But, I hide it well, right? He hee he. I love the forum, the challenges, the people are so amazing, I feel like I’ve grown so much as a scrapper in just the month I’ve been there. I’m hoping to learn even more during my 4 months as a CT, perhaps enough to move on up as a designer in training. Wish me luck, and pop over to see what we’ve got.
( =

Also, I have another bit of news. Starting next Tuesday, May 5th, I will be a challenge hostess over at Digital Freebies. ‘Tuesdays With Tula’ will be a random challenge once a week. Once again, I am super excited. I have tons of ideas and can barely wait to get started. Stop on over to see what I have in store for you.

Are you as eager as I am about this weekend? National Scrapbook Day celebration starts on Friday with lots and lots of fun activities. Be sure to clear some time to get in on all the fun. Here’s the schedule over at Digital Candy…

Pop over and join us. I’ll be looking for you.
( =

Are You Excited About This Weekend?

2009-04-27T08:42:00.000-07:00

I Got A Goodie..

2009-04-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

Cause Iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii will always love yooooooooooOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO..

don't you just love that song? I wish I could really sing in RL (Real Life) but I sure sound good on the internet.

I have a goodie for you, so let's do that first..

Happy Easter to you..

Download **HERE**
(If that link ia off line, try this one **HERE**)

Do you have Easter plans? My kids are all grown now so you'd think I'd be finished with the whole basket business but, nooooooooooo. My kids love goodies and they love knowing mommy still fixes up baskets. Through out the year I pick up the little sample sizes one can get online for free and put them in eggs in their baskets, good for stockings too. I enjoy doing it, so much fun.

I also love this website..**BAKERELLA**. How cute are the goodies here?

Okay, I got stuff to do.
( =

Is It Wednesday Already?

2009-04-08T14:47:00.000-07:00

Wow, time sure does fly when one is busy. I'm running around getting a few things done for Lauren's bridal shower and I have a few other irons in the fire. I apologize for being so AWOL lately and to show you I really am sorry. tomorrow I will post an Easter freebie for you. ( =

I have been busy with a few layouts. Take a peek...

I am so exhausted I'm going to go take a nap.

Ciao.
( =

TGIF!

2009-04-03T19:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!
Happy April!
Happy! Happy! Happy!

I had an amazing day, simply wonderful. My daughter came up today for her fitting (wedding dress)so we got to spend the day together. We had breakfast (I had Huevos Rancheros which was absolutely scrumptious) with my father and my youngest, then a bit of shopping (my dd has a birthday coming up and just had to point out the COACH purse she wants), then the fitting of the gown (she looked breathtaking once again), finishing off with an afternoon sitting in the sun, chatting, laughing and simply enjoying each other. It's been wonderful these past few weeks because I've got to spend a lot more time with her. I miss her so much.

Last night I finished reading the book Handle With Care by Jodi Picoult. Now so sure I liked it or not but it definitely brought emotion out in me. It's worth a look see. Tonight I'm starting The Fountainhead, believe it or not, if I can put down my new scrapbook mag, or get off the computer.

I did finish up a few layouts.

And let's throw in a quick Friday Fiver..

What do you do when you have 'scrapper's block'?

1. Look through my scrapping magazines.
2. Thump through Martha Stewart's Living.
3. Go through my past LOs.
4. Surf forum galleries.
5. Turn off the computer and go take photos.

Going to finish up a LO or two.
Catch ya later, gator.
( =

FOBTY ~ April 2nd

2009-04-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

The FOBTY (From Our Blog To Yours) for today is to list the five television shows I've seen every episode of..

1. Friends ~ I LOVE Friends. Not only have I seen every single episode but I've seen them at least ten times. Yes, I am that much of a Friends freak.

2. Gilmore Girls ~ Another all time favorite. Again, I've seen them all many, many, MANY times. Love it.

3. The Office ~ Funniest show ever! Again, I watch them over and over.

4. I Love Lucy ~ Yes, I do love Lucy.

5. Seinfeld ~ If you own a television how can you not have seen every episode?

Yes, I Am A Bit Of A Dork

2009-04-02T08:54:00.000-07:00

I love these little quizzes. I find them very cute.

You Color Your Life With Vibrant Warmth

You are light hearted and have a sunny disposition. You live a life of gratitude.
You are open and adventurous. You're interested in young people and what's new in the world.
You don't carry any emotional baggage with you through life. What's done is done, and you've moved on.
You start every day fresh. You are optimistic about what's to come.

How Do You Color Your Life?

My Dare Entry..

2009-03-31T15:05:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to drop by and post my entry for The Digi-Dare this week. Don't you love their 'dares'? I've only participated twice now but I love checking their new challenges. Here's mine..

I love the brush stroke papers. I whipped up a few today and I'm putting a kit together soon.

Love and peace,
( =

I Heart Faces Entry

2009-03-30T09:24:00.000-07:00

Pet Entry

This is Sadie, the newest member of our family. Sadie was adopted from the animal shelter and is extremely happy in her new home.

Pop on over to www.iheartfaces.com to see all the other amazing photos.

Confessions Of A Wannabe..

2009-03-29T11:44:00.001-07:00

Confessions..

I have a confession to make, (actually several but I’m going to stick to the couple which are scrapbook related, at the moment), I just now unloaded my entry for a CT position over at Digital Candy. OMG! WTF (don’t you just love using internet slang?) was I thinking? I’ve never applied for anything like this before and last week I did it twice. Yup, you read that correctly, twice. I, after biting a few bullets, I also applied for a DT position over at Sunshine Studios. If you are thinking I should most definitely have my head examined, I’m with you on that thought. It’s not as if I don’t believe I am capable of these performing well in both situations, perhaps it’s simply that I am a coward. I hate being turned down. Believe it or not, I have been denied very rarely in my life. Growing up as a pampered and, yes, without doubt, spoiled, everything was mine for the taking, (for the asking actually, but you know what I mean). Life in my kingdom was flowing along swimmingly until days after my eighth grade graduation, when my castle crumbled and fell to the ground. (Why am I telling you all this? Too much coffee, definitely). That is unquestionably another story for another day. Let’s just say, my world fell apart and leave it at that.

Talk about going off on a tangent. My point, which seemed to get completely lost in my reflective moment, is I’ve infrequently been turned away from anything I truly wanted. Whether it was a toy, job, man or gift, I could request, pout or, if all else failed, stand on my merits to achieve my objective. These last few sentences paint me as diabolical and manipulative (diabolical, no, manipulative, only as a last result) but mostly I was simply stubborn (a company I wanted to work for finally hired me when I wouldn’t leave after the interviewing process was obviously finished) and I stood firm when necessary (I took a girl’s soccer team to a tournament in Hawaii when those not chosen and thusly resentful of the trip tried everything to stand in our way).

I can’t believe I keep running off at the fingers..

Back to my point, I want these positions and I’m nervous. It’s not as if I think I’m unskilled (okay, occasionally I see myself as ridiculously out matched skill-wise), I think I’m a decent designer who can hold her own. There’s still tons for me to learn and I relish each new trick I pick up. What I see when peeking through the galleries of others, is that my style doesn’t always (or ever) seem to fit in with theirs. I like clean and simple pages. Clean lines, white space not arbitrarily filled with a mishmash of embellishments; clearly I am not a huge fan of clustering, which appears to be ‘all the rage’ at the moment. The few pages I have put together using such techniques are among my least favorite layouts.

Wow, I am so ‘all over the place’ today. Perhaps I’m in need of a walk to clear my head. Below is my first entry into the competition over at DC, first elimination is Friday and, call me Debbie Downer, but, I’m not sure I’ll make it past round number 1. Cross your fingers for me.

Happy Friday!

2009-03-27T10:04:00.000-07:00

Hola! Hope all is well on this blustery Friday morning. A chilly ferocious wind is blowing here in Cali and both Pooder (my doggie) and I are shiverin' and shakin'. The two cups of coffee has done nothing to warm my body, I'm seriously thinking of following pup-pup's suggestion of crawling back under the covers and catching a wink or 40. Or perhaps I'll allow myself to get lost in my book once again. If you've never given yourself the opportunity to read 'Saving Fish from Drowning' you have certainly cheated yourself out of a delicious literary treat. Amy Tan’s turn of a phrase is juicy and luscious as I find myself riding along with her characters through their exhilarating experiences of Myanmar, (Burma). I’ve only read one other book written by Amy Tan which, of course, was ‘The Joy Luck Club’. As much as I enjoyed that tale of mothers and daughters, I must admit to falling deeper into SFFD. Her words flow freer, her imagery is more fluid. This book is unquestionably in my top five favs.

Speaking of top fives, let’s do that for our Friday Fiver. Top five favorite books.

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden
Harry Potter Series – Don’t judge me.
(yes, all of them. I know I’m cheating but it’s my blog)
To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Angels and Demons by Dan Brown
New Moon – the second book in the Twilight series

I have tons of others I love and my favorites actually change from moment to moment, depending on my mood.

Here’s a peek my newest kit, which I will release as soon as the links are uploaded.

Want a chance at it? Simply leave a comment on your top 5 books and you’ll be entered in a drawing to win the kit, ‘Life is a Journey’. Can’t get much easier than that.

Good Luck!
( =

Look at all the Goodies

2009-03-26T09:48:00.000-07:00

I wanted to start out my post today sharing a gorgeous kit I spied over at Sunshine Studios, Happiness Is by Sya and Juno.

Such beautiful colors and a fun theme. If you want a chance to own it for free, just pop on over to SSS and follow the directions there. Cool, huh?

~~~

You Are MySpace

You are young ... or at least you feel like you are. You are drawn to musicians and artists.
You are proud of who you are. Your quirks are an asset, and you flaunt them!
You are attracted to shiny things, and you aren't afraid of a little bling.
You're stubborn enough to stick to what your like, even if falls out of fashion.

Are You Facebook, MySpace, or Twitter?

~~

And for dropping by I have a pre-paper kit for you. The colors of this set match the kit I’m releasing Friday. Grab this collection then drop back by tomorrow to pick up “Life Is A Journey”.
Bunch of love,
( =

Download *HERE*

It's Meeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee and a Freebie

2009-03-25T10:19:00.000-07:00

Looky! Looky!
It’s me! With a blog entry longer than three to five lines!
YaY!

I do apologize once more for being such a horrific blog hostess. As much as I try to keep up, sometimes life just gets too busy. These past two weeks have been a whirlwind of enjoyment, camaraderie, delight and utter exhaustion. It’s been grand although it’s seemed to suck all the energy from my already depleted body. Have you ever been so drained you simply yearn to crawl back under the covers and sob? I’m long past that. I would love nothing more than to grab a Diet Pepsi, load myself up with ibuprofen, grab my pup-pup and lock myself in my room with my book until Sunday. I’d probably need another book though, I’ll take ‘The Fountainhead” and “Handle with Care” as well. Would hate to be without reading material during my quiescence.

So, it’s time for a post and a quality post at that. Two weeks ago my darling daughter came up for the weekend; we hadn’t seen each other since Christmas. Our longest separation ever! We started our time together by heading over for a bit of color and clip at our favorite hair joint. Our hair person is the best ever. It’s always a blast spending time with Debbie (ours) and the ‘girls’. We laugh, we gossip, we emote. It’s everything a stop at the salon should be. Then off to ‘Pick Up Stix’ for lunch. If you haven’t dropped in to PUS (ewwwwwwww, such a bad abbreviation), make a point to. The cream cheese wontons are to die for. Seriously yum. We strolled along the outdoor mall, stopping off at Borders to browse. I love that store. I could spend an entire week or two there easily. Love it. We headed off to the hotel, (I decided we needed to spend a little ‘girl time’ so we spent the night at a hotel). Just as we were about to nap, it was time to head off to dinner. After dinner, which was fun, it was time to see Joel McHale LIVE!!! It was so unbelievably awesome. I love Joel McHale, I watch The Soup religiously and he was even better, and cuter, live. We went back to the hotel, a little chitchat and then both of us passed out. Hit this wonderful café for breakfast with my dad and Lauren’s father. It was a beautiful restaurant and the food was fabulous. I loved it. Plus, since I take my camera EVERYWHERE I go, the owner offered to buy my photos. Crazy, huh? Considering he hasn’t seen any of my ‘work’. Who knows, this could be my big break. Another Grandma Moses in the making.

After the nosh, my baby girl met her fiancé and trekked down to Santa Barbara to peek at a wedding location. Finally, after a few years (yes, YEARS) of looking, they have decided on a place and date. June 20th. I’m not in a hurry to see her married off and I am glad she has waited. We’ve already purchased her wedding gown, which is absolutely breathtaking so all we really need to do is have it fitted. I’m thankful she’s going for a small ceremony and a simple dinner or I don’t know what I’d do. This wedding I can afford, too much bigger and I’d be on the corner with a cup.

It took me all week to get over the time spent with my only girl child when Steven, my youngest, called for a road trip down to Riverside County to see Lauren. Wow, to see my dd back to back weekends. Awesome. Saturday morning we hit the highway for two plus hours and it was delightful. I relish spending time with my children. Even in the car. In Traffic. For three hours. It’s a wonderful experience to have access to their thoughts, feelings, dreams. I am so lucky to have such fantastic offspring. I absolutely adore them.

Once there, Lauren dragged me to the market, to Target and to an auto parts store. After lunch, she coerced me into taking the dogs for a walk and it was a wonderful/horrendous experience. She lives in a gorgeous house up on a hill surrounded by magnificent scenery. It’s enormously glorious. That’s the wonderful part; we were engulfed in splendid colors in the form of flowers and trees. The horrendous part, we walked down and up hills and hills and hills. My knees were on fire. My legs were trembling and I was a humongous sweaty mess. Yuck. But, I did it. Of course, I haven’t been able to walk since but I definitely did something I didn’t think I would be able to do. Go me!

It was so much fun. I had the best time. Now I’m trying to regulate myself back to a little normalcy but I am pooped. I would love to spend the day in bed but someone’s gotta clean this dump. And someone is me.

I did get a few layouts finished I haven’t posted, so here they are. Also, I do have a new kit coming out this Friday, inspired by Jo’s challenge over at Digital Freebies and I do apologize to her for not getting her participation goodie out yet. I’m sorry. Soon.

BTW, I have a freebie for you all for being so patient with me, just a little word art.

Enjoy.

Download *here*

Okay, I’m off for a bit.
Lots of love
( =

Please Accept My Apology..

2009-03-23T11:13:00.000-07:00

Wow, I am so sorry for being such a dud when it comes to blogging these last two weeks. Life has been busy, busy, busy. I promise to be back over the next couple of days to update, share some news and release a new kit.

Love ya.
( =

Chocolate or Vanilla

2009-03-19T09:08:00.000-07:00

You Are Chocolate

You are dramatic, charming, and downright addicting.
You have a strong personality, and and people are drawn to your fabulousness.
You are stimulating and exciting. It's hard to get tired of you.
You are incredibly likable and popular. You live a glorious life.

Are You Chocolate or Vanilla?

Primrose Lane

2009-03-17T00:22:00.000-07:00

Happy St Patty's Day.

Hope everyone had a super special weekend. Mine was amazing and I promise to write all about it one day this week. I spent it with my daughter and my youngest and had a blast. It was fantastic.

Finally, I have my kit, Primrose Lane released and available for sale. Just hit the "Buy Now" button and I'll email the links and password to you ASAP. I hope you enjoy using the kit as much as I enjoyed designing it.

It comes with 30 unusual papers and over 60 elements for a one time low price of $3.50.

Tired..Tired..Tired

2009-03-13T17:48:00.000-07:00

Once again I'll apologize for being so lame when it comes to posting. I am simply exhausted. I'm not even sure I can get through my email and regular blog list I visit. We'll keep the Friday Fiver real simple.

What are five forums you post at? If you don't post layouts at five sites, what are the five where you'd like to post but for some reason do not?

1. Digital Freebies
2. Sunshine Studios (one layout so far)
3. Brownie Scraps
4. Digi Dares"(once)
5. Digichick

Again, if you participate you'll receive a special prize. Also, I have a very special giveaway I'll announce on Monday. Sorry I'm such a bore, But I'm dead tired.

Have a great weekend.
Love and kisses
( =

I Love You Ono

2009-03-12T19:00:00.000-07:00

I love you, ONO
Diamond ring, CHA CHA
Holiday sun, OPQ
Planet earth presents you

Thursday already. YaY! I can’t wait for this Saturday. My darlin’ daughter is coming down in the a.m. (we’re getting our hair cut), checking out restaurants for her wedding dinner, having dinner with the family and then, we’re going to see Joel McHale (from The Soup) doing a little stand-up. I love Joel McHale, he’s so funny on the show, we’ll see what he has on stage. I am definitely looking forward to spending a little girl time with my female child, I haven’t seen her since Christmas. It feels like forever.

I know I haven’t exactly been a terrific blogger-keeper-upper, but all this walking seriously tires me out. Besides trying to finish my kit (which I did. YaY for me). My body aches and all I want to do is sleep. I do feel good about it however. Although I did feel like caca the beginning of the week, I shook it off and got back to walking. Even walking twice a day. I can feel the difference already, I have a larger range of motion, which means I can actually tie my shoes without and breathe at the same time. All you skinny people take that for granted. Breathing and doing anything else.

Anyway, I’m pooped today as well, so I’m just going to say thank you once again to Jo for participating in my Friday Fiver and here is her prize, my new kit entitled Primrose Lane.

It comes with 30 unusual papers and over 60 elements.
Release date Monday, March 16th.

Thanks again Jo. You’re the ‘ish.
( =

Onward and Upward

2009-03-10T14:00:00.000-07:00

I remember when Tuesdays were my favorite days of the week. I loved watching Dancing with the Stars (I’m so over it now though) and Law & Order SVU but I just don’t watch much television anymore especially at night. Usually I catch a bit of John Stewart then head off to bed where I read or maybe even watch a movie if I’m feeling ambitious. The Boob Tube just ain’t what it used to be. I miss the days of Friends, Seinfeld, Caroline in the City, Taxi, Cheers (pre-Kristie Alley), the Facts of Life. I even remember the days of Man from U.N.C.L.E, Get Smart, Bewitched, I Dream of Jeanie, The Addams Family, M*A*S*H, the Love Boat and even My Mother the Car. I am so done with the shows of today. Someone must be watching For Love of Money, Hogan Knows Best, I Love New York, My Fair Brady, Bromance, Sweet Sixteen. I admit to watching a few episodes of Sweet Sixteen, but it was the can’t-help-but-look-at-an-accident syndrome. Horrendous. If a society is judged by the network programming, I’m afraid of what the future will say of us.

During my treks throughout the digi-world, I have found so many people who have fallen in love with the Twilight series. I count myself in the crowd as well. Last summer my darling daughter introduced me to Bella and Edward through Twilight and I completely devoured the first book. Then the next. And the next. And finally, the last. I couldn’t seem to get enough of the Cullens. I’ve read Twilight 3x and Breaking Dawn 2x. New Moon was a heart-wrenching read for me (yes, I’m still talking about a book about vampires) and I just didn’t care much for Eclipse. When the movie was finally released, I drove two and a half hours to view it with my daughter. Loved the film, maybe would have chosen a different set of actors for the Cullens (except Alice), Robert Patterson would never have been my first choice. I love Kristen Stewart as Bella and Dakota Fanning as Jane is ideal. Without any criticism directed at the author, but the series is very simple. Not at all as intricate as the Harry Potter books. But the simplicity of the story works for both adults and teenage girls. In the midst of being bombarded by movies, magazine ads and television commercials programs loaded with sexual innuendoes and promiscuity, it’s nice to find a book loaded with love, touched with a bit of hormonal yearning and best of all, abstinence. If you haven’t taken the time to read through all four books, most are out in paperback at Target. Definitely worth it.

I have no clue why I veered off on those tangents. Odd.

Well, had a bad day yesterday, a bit of a setback. I don’t know what was going on with me but I woke up with an intense headache, a tad dizzy and super weak. I was concerned I was coming down with some odd flu but those were my only symptoms. Not sure what it was but I was definitely dragging bottom. So, I decided perhaps I was a bit overworked and took that day off as well. I’m still feeling extremely drained but I’m going to walk tonight no matter what. Even if I only walk a short time, I’m still walking. Never say die.

I finished another layout. I used part of the weekly download over at Sunshine Studio. Pop over and check their weekly giveaway and challenge. Here’s what I did with it..

Most of the goodies are from Sunshine but the tree and two of the papers are mine and part of Primrose Lane kit releases on Friday.

Alrighty, time to get a bit of work done.

Peace out,
( =

Oh Happy Day!

2009-03-08T12:37:00.000-07:00

Oh Happy Day..
Happy Sunday!!
I am having a tremendously blissful day that I would gladly share with you if I could only bottle a wee (St Patrick’s Day reference) bit, stuff it in a bottle and send it your way. I am exhausted but the sort of exhaustion that feels so very good. My legs woke me up in the middle of the night shrieking in agony, my bum is throbbing, my back and shoulders are so enormously sore I am swallowing four ibuprofen at a time. Yet, I feel invigorated. A very fatigued and aching invigorated but invigorated none the less. This morning, I awoke bright and early, literally crawling out of bed when my youngest strongly suggested I take the day off. At first, I wavered. I’ve been walking every single day for nine days straight, sometimes twice a day, and I really didn’t want to do anything to break my momentum. But, I was so sore and tired, I decided to go with the whole day off idea (although, I might walk tonight if I feel up to it). So, I’m not even going grocery shopping today (I’ll do it tomorrow), just tidy up, toss in a load of laundry and play with my new kit. Perhaps even take a catnap. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm..

Guess how much I weigh.

Of course you can’t guess, you have no idea and, neither do I. Last week I attempted to weigh myself, first time in probably a year. Going as far as pulling the scale out, holding my breath and stepping on it. Mustering up what little courage I had left, I looked down and saw something I didn’t expect. The scale was blank. Oh! My! Goodness! I broke the scale! Nah, it was simply a dead battery. Whew. I was about to run to Target to pick up a new battery when I decided against it. Do I really care what I weigh? In the long run, yes, but today, no. Does it really matter if I lost two pounds or ten pounds last week? If I’m happily walking morning and night, eating well (which I am. No chocolate in any form since last Sunday and I’ve lived to tell about it), why even bother with the scale? Those numbers will only dishearten and discourage me. There isn’t much more I can do at the moment. (Okay, I could definitely drink more water, I’ll work on that this week.) I’m not even going to bother getting on any scale until my doctor’s visit. If it ain’t broke, why fix it?

I wanted to share with you a layout done by Jo with my RD You Broke My Heart kit. I have to confess, it’s pretty cool to see someone put together a gorgeous page with my kit. Thank you, Jo, it is amazingly beautiful.

Even though today is Sunday, we’re going to play Friday Fiver and here’s the deal. Everyone has until Wednesday at midnight to answer and all those who respond will receive my new kit (which will be released for sale on Friday) free and first. YaY! Free stuff! Play the game, get the goodies, it’s just that easy. Here we go..

In what five ways do you reward yourself that have nothing to do with food?
Friday, for being so good all week, I took another walk.
Buy a new book and/or magazine.
Spend extra time playing on the computer.
Download music I’ve been wanting.
Take a nap.

Wow, I definitely need suggestions on how to reward myself. That’s what happens when one becomes ‘just’ a mom for so long. So, give it up and I’ll send you the link and password for my new kit called Primrose Lane.

Okie dokies, time to get down to business or take a nap. Heads, work, tails, sleep..

( =

Achy, Breaky

2009-03-05T13:05:00.000-08:00

I am sooooooooooooooooo exhausted today. My body aches, my head hurts and I am having nearly an impossible time keeping my eyes open. After this post, and perhaps a few here and there across the net, I'm hitting my bed and hitting it hard.

I just finished this layout for Digital Freebies. It's part of a kit I'm working on.

Even though it's not Friday, here's a freebie for you.
Enjoy.

Download Quick Page HERE

I am so out.
( =

What Your Flower Says About You.

2009-03-05T11:54:00.000-08:00

A Lily Says You're Very Enticing

You are playful, flirty, and friendly.
You can easily light up a room... or someone's heart.
Your unique personality attracts a lot of attention!
Your cute ways get you in trouble. People can't help but be a little jealous of you.

What Do The Flowers You Pick Say About You?

Deju Vu All Over Again

2009-03-04T12:29:00.000-08:00

I wake up early, between 4 am and 6 am but I usually stay in bed until 6:30ish. This morning at 4:30 it was raining, coming down in cupfuls. Knowing my trepidation of lightning, I figured I’d sleep in and snuggled back under the covers. By 6:30, the deluge had ended, even though I had decided not to walk, I was having second thoughts. Once I get with a program, I hate any interruption. So, I drank my coffee, slid on my walking clothes (yes, I have special sweats for walking), grabbed my camera (I never learn) and plod out the door through puddle after puddle.

Before I go any further perhaps I should explain a few facets of my personality. Of course, this is coming from my own point of view, but who knows me better than me anyway? If I think I’m right, I can be extremely persistent and stubborn. If I am not doing anything wrong, I am within my rights and I like what I’m doing, I can dig in pretty darn far. Normally, I’m a giving, sharing, kind, understanding person. I say please, thank you and excuse ALL the time. More than anyone else I know. I smile a lot, I laugh all the time and I give people the benefit of the doubt. If you have yet to guess where this story is headed, here we go..

I started my walk armed as always, with my camera but this time I decided to try my luck with the opposite direction. Before I even slogged halfway, I was being confronted by a large blue vehicle from which two LARGE uniformed men popped out of. All I could think of was, here we go again. These two were a tad more gruff than the last two either that or I have bluffed up quite a bit since yesterday thus appearing to be a danger to them. One gentleman asked me to stay where I was, at least 10 feet from the truck, and place my camera on the hood of the vehicle. First, I couldn’t reach it if I tried, I do not posses Gumby arms, and, second, his truck is covered in water and I am NOT placed my beloved camera in any puddle of water, no matter how small. I would go through the entire spiel but just reread yesterday’s post in a deeper, grouchier voice. I suppose I look like such a threat they approach me with caution. Once I showed them my ‘surveillance’ photos, they relaxed, even broke a smile or two and became apologetic. These two, for some reason, needed to call a superior officer, I’m moving up on the threat list it seems. Their SO was a doll. He was chuckling at the situation as he pointed out the photos he’d have to delete because I captured their flight path. I have no clue what that means. Anyway, after 15 to 20 minutes-ish, I was on my way again, telling them I was sure I’d see them tomorrow. They actually laughed.

Arriving home, I told my tale to my oldest (who moved out last week but is home AGAIN to do laundry, watch tv, eat and annoy me) who suggests I stop carrying the camera. I have lived here for 30 years, I have walked that same path off and on over those years, I’m not doing anything wrong. I understand we live in scary times, I watch television, I see the news, but I’m not doing anything wrong. I enjoy my walk, I love taking my camera and snapping photos of the birds, the trees, the flowers and anything else that catches my eye. I AM NOT A TERRORIST! Should I have to cease because people who see me with a camera become anxious? I’m not doing anything wrong. I’m not sure what to do. I don’t want to stop but I don’t want to deal with this each and every time. It’s ridiculous. Maybe I should buy a t-shirt that proclaims “I am NOT a Terrorist”.

I just want to be able to walk and take my photos.

I was playing with my aperture this morning so not too many of my photos turned out so well anyway. Here’s a few..

I also finished a couple of layouts. This one is a template challenge from Digital Freebies...

This one I put together for a white space challenge over at Brownie Scraps

I'm still working on a few kits, just looking for a store or perhaps I can put one together myself. I promise a freebie on Friday. Come on back and see me.

Smoochie boochies,
( =

Playlist for Jen

2009-03-04T10:06:00.000-08:00

Pink ~ Sober
Britney Spears ~ Womanizer (Don’t judge me)
Duffy ~ Stepping Stone
Duffy ~ Mercy
Duffy ~ Delayed Devotion
Beyonce ~ Single Ladies
Beyonce ~ If I Were A Boy (Her voice in this song makes me wish I could sing)
John Mayer ~ Waiting On The World To Change
John Mayer ~ Slow Dancing In A Burning Room
John Mayer ~ I’m Going To Find Another You
Maroon 5 ~ Through With You
Maroon 5 ~ Tangled
Maroon 5 ~ Harder To Breathe
Maroon 5 ~ Not Coming Home
Maroon 5 ~ This Love
O.A.R. ~ Shattered
Staind ~ Tangled Up In You
The Killers ~ Human

I am NOT a terrorist!

2009-03-03T10:06:00.000-08:00

I suppose, if my life keeps going the way it has been lately, I’ll need to change the title of my blog to ‘The Trials and Tribulations of TallulahTooGood’. Just when you thought it was safe to go back into the water…

Allow me to set the stage for you. We live out of town, way out of town. There is nothing within walking distance with the exception of the freeway, agricultural fields growing ‘I have no idea’, mountains, the beach about five miles away (I didn’t say within my walking distance) and a military base. I begin my walk each morning, and evening, by crossing the street, walking the few steps to the barbed-wire fence surrounding the landing strip and fitness track (I assume that’s what it is as I see soldiers running around it all the time). I walk along the fence, simply because a path is worn making it much easier for me, armed with a bag of bread crumbs and a camera with a lens large enough to make Tommy Lee jealous. Get where I’m going with this tale?

Half way through my hike, I am approached my two soldier boys (they couldn’t have been older than 30, 35 tops) dressing in camouflaged gear. Have they been following me and I haven’t noticed because of their uniforms? Not surprised one bit at their appearance, I’ve actually been expecting a confrontation a bit sooner, my camera is THAT awesome. Considering there was only three of us out in the middle of nowhere, no mistake they were there for me.

Both were very polite yet extremely straightforward, one very cute, one, ech. Naturally the not-as-cute one conducts the interrogation. What am I taking pictures of? Did I know I was on government property? Name, rank and serial number. Not-so-cute guy was in the middle of his questions when his cell phone rang to the tune of “Kung Fu Fighting”. It’s now a bit difficult to take him seriously; thank goodness he passed me over to the cute one who is much more sensitive and conducts the rest of the chat with a soft touch. Him, I’m liking. Wondering if his ringtone starts out..”I’ll make love to you like you want me to…”

He asks me my name, not too certain he believes me but he writes it down. Wants to know where I was born, thinking Kabul would not be as funny an answer to them as I seem to think it is. After he finds out everything about me, including my last Pap smear results, he gently lets me know the info will not be released to anyone else. As he gazes at me compassion I realize since sweat has been dripping in my eyes, I keep blinking, giving the illusion I am on the verge of weeping. He’s so cute I just want to wrap him up and take him home.

Not-so-cute-guy decides it’s time to ruin my moment by explaining how people are (and here he uses air quotes, he is making it nearly impossible to take him seriously) “concerned” these days when they see someone carrying a camera and snapping pics near a military facility. I get it. I definitely can see how I would be mistaken for a terrorist, an over-weight-out-of-shape-fifty-plus woman waddling a mile and a half morning and night. I can see the resemblance. Seriously, I’m cool with the cross-examination. I offer to let me look through the photos I took (looking at 50 photos of a hummingbird cannot possible entertain anyone else but me) and not-so-cute-guy can’t operate my camera. We look at them together, he asks me to delete a few, explains where I can take photos and whisks the-cute-one away, probably to deal another terroristic emergency. Yes, I am making light of the incident, even though I am aware of the gravity of a terrorist attack, I think it was just a bit ridiculous. Seriously, one look at me would relieve anyone’s worried mind. I am not a terrorist.

Now, I imagine I am on some suspected terrorist list which will cause me to be stripped down whenever I enter an airport, whatever books and movies I choose to indulge in will be flagged and examined for content, my blog will be censured. It could happen. If you’re reading this not-as-cute-guy (notice how I slipped that little change in), if I were a terrorist, I would probably part across the freeway where you wouldn’t see me and use a much bigger lens to take photos, Just saying. And please change your ringtone.
Cute-guy, call me. ( =

Everybody was kung fu fighting…

I decided to make you all accomplices by sharing a few photos from this morning.
Hehe he

I also finished another layout for Brownie Scraps.

I think I'm going to redo it, removing the ribbons (because I'm not much of a ribbon/bow person) and try a different title. Do you ever redo your layouts?

If I get a chance today, I'll finish up the template and have it as a freebie tomorrow.

Love you bunches,
( =

A Change Is Coming On...

2009-03-02T11:19:00.000-08:00

Just to let you know, I am an impatient person. Enormously impatient. Perhaps I should give it more time but this blog thing is simply not working the way I hoped. I expected people clamoring to my page, begging for more freebies and toasting my incredible creative abilities. Not as if that’s a lot to ask. It just doesn’t appear as if that is going to happen anytime soon so I’m changing my approach. There will still be freebies and goodies but a tad more at random. I’ve been up to my arse trying to finish kits that I have been neglecting so many other activities I love. Actually creating layouts, spending time snapping photos, exercising, etc. So, that’s the deal. Come as you are, stay as long as you like, take what you want and leave me a bit of loving.

Last night I finished reading “Such A Pretty Fat” by Jen Lancaster, totally LOVED it. I may have mentioned her a time or two before, I adore her sense of humor. Mammoth sarcasm tangling with cleverness and wit. Such a magnificent mixture. ‘Pretty Fat’ depicts her pilgrimage from fat to fit, her failures and her ultimate triumph. Not only did I eat up every single page (pun intended), something miraculous happened, I became inspired. After ignoring my bulk for the past year, it was time. One can only convince themselves for so long that the reason their knickers kept slipping down was not from losing a few pounds but simply because my gut had gotten so massive there was nowhere else for my panties to go but down. Time to face facts. I am fat. I am beyond plump, fleshy, chubby or flabby. I am obese. I don’t have a ‘couple of pounds’ to lose, I have double digits to dump. It’s not as if I didn’t realize how extreme I am, I am a somewhat intelligent person, but there was always tomorrow. I would diet tomorrow. I would exercise tomorrow. It would all be better (say it with me) tomorrow. Only, tomorrow came and went and none of it ever happened. I didn’t magically get thinner or fitter or happier and I only felt worse. Therefore, I am on my own weight-lose-get-fit-and-healthier mission.

I started walking on Friday, a mile and a half in the morning and a mile and a half in the evening. I feel good about it, I feel good I can even walk a mile and a half in the first place. Go me! Hence, feeling strong and invincible, I started out this morning, armed with my camera and a baggie of bread for the birds, at 7:30 raring to go. Yes, my legs are sore and extremely heavy, I cheerfully plod along anyway. I’m doing it. Four days of walking, six miles total, I’m doing it. I’m not even a 10 minutes into my walk when I feel a drop. Not sure whether it was rain or bird poo, I was hoping for the latter. Another drop and another and another. It’s raining, well, morning like a drizzle. No way am I giving into a sprinkling of water. I’m sure not going to melt. I stuck my camera under my shirt and trudged forward. I hit the halfway mark looking somewhat like a Dalmatian, the one with only a few spots. I feel my pace quicken as the drops fall faster and faster but I’m still contented, I rather like walking in the rain. Some of my favorite memories come from spending time in the rain with others. Tooling along, listening to my thighs scream obscenities even I’ve never uttered, when it dawns on me I’m walking next to a metal fence in an open field. What if I get struck by lightning? Although I have never been hit by lightning, I’ve never known anyone hit by lightning, this thought becomes a possibility in my mind. Preparing myself, I scan the sky for any hint of a strike, as if an over-weight-out-of –shape-50-plus-year-old-woman could dodge a bolt if I spot it coming. Aw delusion, thy name is me. With nearly a third left to go, I work on convincing myself God wouldn’t strike me down when I’m trying so hard to get back in shape. And didn’t I bring the birds a few stale hot dog buns for their consumption? That’s gotta count for something. I probably should have picked up that Starbucks cup that wasn’t mine (I always go to Coffee Bean and I never litter), I promise to bring a bag and pick up trash on my next walk. Who would take care of my three children? I know they’re all grown up and two have moved out of the nest but they still need me. Believe me, they are always calling for advice and/or help. And my pets, no one takes care of them the way I do. They would miss me more than my kids. And I just refilled my prescriptions and they’re expensive. I haven’t even seen Slum Dog Millionaire yet. I wonder if being hit by lightning would leave my hair in that weird curliness that happens when hair is singed with a cigarette. Not a good look for me.

As you can see, I made it back with no incident of scorching. My body is in pain from the abnormal amount of movement it’s been experiencing but it’s well earned soreness. Day 4, YaY for me.

Last night I finished a layout for Brownie Scraps a fun little forum I found. Adorable forum with friendly posters and fun challenges. This page was created with a supplied kit.

This is my oldest son, isn’t he absolutely gorgeous? He has the most incredible deep brown eyes. I snapped up tons of photos while he was visiting Saturday, it’s like pulling teeth to get these boys to sit for a few pics.

This is one of the reasons I love living here. Nature at every turn. I’m not sure if this is a crane or a heron but they’re usually paired up, a white and this grey one. I love watching the way they walk, with the heads pushing forward and then back.

Okies, I'm outta here for awhile.

Love you bunches.
( =

Friday Fiver

2009-02-27T07:53:00.000-08:00

I feel as if I’ve been neglecting you these last two days and I am sorry but (always a but) for some reason, I find myself unusually busy. Normally my days are filled with..well, anything I want to do. Go for a walk, play with the dog and cat, chat with my brood and so on. But, somehow I have fallen behind on the few chores I actually need to have done. So, after a minute’s worth of chit-chat, I’ll be off for a tad.

Happy Friday Fiver!!

Here’s the deal. I’ll pick a topic, name my top 5, and then you leave a comment with your top 5. Everyone who participates receives a special prize to be unveiled Monday. You have until Sunday night at 12 to respond. Last week’s prize was this set of acrylic arrows.

Top 5 places you’d love to visit…

1. Galapagos Islands – although maybe not such a great idea not with all the devastation done by tourists but I would love to trek through as an explorer or such.

2. Italy – after peeking at the photos my youngest brought home from his semester abroad, I knew Italy and its art and fountains and architecture would be at the top of my Bucket List.

3. Paris – nuff said.

4. Japan – the beaches, the Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo, it looks absolutely gorgeous.

5. Australia – I wanted to go down under to see all the lush forests, the beaches and, of course, the Great Barrier Reef but now, I’ll grab a shovel and lend a hand.

Your turn.

I know I semi-promised a new kit today but looks like more like Monday. I’ll pull a pop on this Sunday to post a peek and the kit on Monday. Deal?

Smooches and have a super duper weekend

( =

Always Late..

2009-02-26T13:27:00.000-08:00

Always late..
I know I promised to share a few web sites today so here’s a few of my favorites…

Standouts
Pixels And Ice Cream
BannerWoman Designs
Inspire Me Thursday

Another WTH Wednesday

2009-02-25T03:49:00.000-08:00

I love staying up at night. It’s so quiet, peaceful; I can even hear myself thinking. Everyone else is sound asleep; it’s just me and the dog. Perfect.

This week, for WTH Wednesday, I made up a set of striped papers. I love papers, one can never have enough. I like having a large base to choose from, all different colors. I hope you enjoy these, especially the colors being as these are the colors of my next kit.

Download Papers **HERE**

Pop back tomorrow to share your favorite sites and see what I found this week.

Smooches,
( =

When You Fail To Plan You Plan To Fail

2009-02-24T04:09:00.000-08:00

My legs are aching something awful. I did tons of walking yesterday as well as bending and cleaning. More so than normal and my things are on fire. I’m about to swallow some Motrin, grab a cup of tea, snuggle under my comforter and read my book. A good swab or 2 of Icy Hot as well.

I put together a template for today. I read on one of the other scrapbook sites that starting with a template is easier than going it without. I never used templates when I first started scrappin’, I thought I was more ‘artistic’ beginning each layout with what I considered a blank canvas. But, I tried it, and I like it. For me, it makes the whole process more enjoyable. It’s like building a house or making a dress, the process goes much faster and the end product is better structured when one starts with a sketch.

Here’s the template I drew up..

Download template **HERE**

And here is the layout I put together for a challenge over at Digital Freebies.

Don't forget tomorrow is WTH Wednesday and you never know what I'll have for you.
( =

Love you bunches,
( =

Wouldn't You Like To Be A Twitter Too?

2009-02-23T01:54:00.001-08:00

Do you Twitter? When I first heard about it, I thought it was a huge waste of time. Now, I know it is but it’s addicting. After reading that one of my favorite bloggers (Jennsylvania)‘Twitters’, I decided to go see what all the fuss was about. It’s fun. Aston Kutcher (@aplusk) ‘Twitters’, John Mayer (@johncmayer) ‘Twitters’, Jimmy Fallon, Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert all ‘Twitter’. If you decide to join in, add me, TallulahTooGood.

Hope all had a wonderful weekend. Mine was slow. Shopping, cleaning, reading and working on a new kit (releases this Friday). I bought a couple of new books, The Tenderness of Wolves by Stef Penny and Such a Pretty Fat by (none other than) Jen Lancaster. I love books and I have horrendous time trying to walk through Target or Costco without picking a few up. The fact I only procured 2 is evidence of my will power. I could easily walk out with a cart load or 5.

Watch the Oscars? I was thinking about it, I watched the red carpet fashion stroll. Loved Marisa Tomei’s dress, absolutely stunning. Freida Pinto, gorgeous. Natalie Portman, loved her gown, the color was spectacular. Far too many more to mention. After Penelope Cruz won for BSA, I fell asleep. Missed it all. I’m not much of an Oscar follower anyway, so, no huge loss.

Today I wanted to share with you a few of my favorite fonts. To me, the right font communicates the sentiment of the page almost as much as the journaling does. I can spend as much time picking out the font as I do the papers and elements (yeah, I guess you could say I’m a tad anal).

Font #1 ~ chachie ~ the font I use the most. All lowercase, thick for easy reading.
Font #2 ~ Daffadownlilly ~ tall, thin, even fun to say.
Font #3 ~ Kayleigh ~ easy to read, handwriting font

Download Fonts*HERE*

I want to say a huge thank you to Jo for all her support with this blog of mine. I truly appreciate all the comments and compliments I’ve received from her. It’s tough trying to start out in this whole designing area and knowing I have someone in my corner helps so very much. And, because she played in my Friday Fiver, I have a special goodie for her. Personally, I love the look of acrylic elements so I made up this set of 6 arrows as a thank you for participation.

(The link and password will be emailed tonight.)

Don’t forget tomorrow is Tip, Template or Tutorial? Tuesday. Stop by and see what’s up.

Much love,
Muah

Your Word is...

2009-02-20T06:27:00.000-08:00

Your Word is "Fearless"

You see life as your one chance to experience everything, and you just go for it!
You believe the biggest risk is being afraid and missing out on something amazing.
Sometimes your fearlessness means you're daring. You enjoy risky activities.
And sometimes your fearlessness means you're courageous. You're brave enough to do the right thing, even when it's scary.

What's Your Word?

What Your Birthdate Says About You..

2009-02-20T00:25:00.000-08:00

You Are a Revolutionary

You have many talents, and you are great at sharing those talents with others.

Most people would be jealous of your clever intellect, but you're just too likeable to elicit jealousy.
Progressive and original, you're usually thinking up cutting edge ideas.
Quick witted and fast thinking, you have difficulty finding new challenges.
Your power month: May

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

Gotta do what you can just to keep your love alive..

2009-02-19T21:27:00.000-08:00

"Trying not to confuse it with what you do to survive
In sixty-nine I was twenty-one and I called the road my own
I dont know when that road turned onto the road Im on

Running on - running on empty
Running on - running blind
Running on - running into the sun
But Im running behind"

Happy Fun Friday!!

Here it is the end of the week already. I love Fridays, there’s just such a calming, end-of-the-week feeling emitted by Fridays. Going out to dinner, snuggling at the movies, not stressing about waking up early the next morning. Of course, I don’t do any of that these days but the remembrance is still comforting. Happy happy Friday.

This Friday I thought we’d try something a bit different I’m borrowing from another website (the site is no longer active) called Friday Fiver. This is how it’s going to work. I’ll list a subject or questions; sometimes it will be personal and sometimes about scrappin’. Those who choose to answer in my comments section will receive a link and password by email by Monday evening for a special goodie. Ya game? Here we go..

Five Items You Would Never (Hardly Ever, Rarely) Find On Your Layouts…

Ribbon wrapped frames ~ I just don’t like them. In RL, I would never wrap a ribbon around a frame, a necklace, maybe, a bracelet, perhaps, even a string occasionally, but never a ribbon.

Bows ~ I don’t like the look of a big, birthday present-ish bow. I can handle string or yarn tied in a small bow but that’s about it.

Realistic Scanned Items ~ on a page with computer made embellishments. For instance, a real flower or leaves on a page with computer doodles. I’m just a tad anal if you haven’t already noticed, I like real with real, computer made with same.

Circle Photos ~ I prefer clean, straight lines and angles.

Buttons ~ It’s not as if I don’t like buttons, I just rarely ever use them. When I’m putting a page together, they aren’t materials that come to mind.

Okie doke, now it’s your turn. Be sure to leave your email with your answers and I’ll sent everything out on Monday. Have a super bueno weekend.

Kiss kiss,
Muah
Tula

I would not be just a nothin' my head all full of stuffin'…

2009-02-18T21:28:00.000-08:00

My heart all full of pain.
I would dance and be merry, life would be a ding-a-derry,
If I only had a brain.”

I have a confession to make, nearly every morning as far back as I can recall, I wake up with a song in my head. And I do mean that literally, it’s not like having a song in my heart which implies happiness, I wake up singing a song. This morning was, of course, If I Only Had A Brain, I blame the television commercials. Or the fact I fall asleep many nights with ear buds crooning soothing harmonies subliminally.

“I could while away the hours, conferrin' with the flowers
Consultin' with the rain.
And my head I'd be scratchin' while
my thoughts were busy hatchin'
If I only had a brain.”

Since I’ve had this pulsating pain in my head for a couple of days now, I decided to treat myself to an ice bag, a large diet Pepsi and snuggle up for a movie. Therefore, I popped in ‘Blindness’ and settled back awaiting to be entertained. Hmmmmmmmm, whatever possessed me to even imagine I would find this flick satisfying is beyond me. There is something about Julianne Moore I don’t much care for and I can’t put my finger on it. Wracking my brain, I can’t come up with one single movie she acted in that I remotely liked. Then there is Mark Ruffalo, who I almost liked back in times of ‘Eternal Sunshine’ and ’13 Going On 30’ but it has been all downhill from there. Danny Glover is the only cast member I actually liked. Then comes the plot or rather lack of a plot. The movie sucked. It was long, boring, completely anti-climatic and did I mention boring? As the film progress, definitely a diminution of content occurred. If you had the misfortune of paying $10 plus snacks at the theater, my heart aches for you, you got jacked. If you rented the movie as I did, DEMAND your movie back. In this day when money is scarcer than a one-legged flamenco dancer, no one can afford to toss even $5 away on crap like this. Perhaps it’s because I didn’t read the book first as I’m usually inclined to. If anyone has the book out there in the RW, I’ll trade you my ‘The Reader’ for your ‘Blindness’. Yes, it appears I am a glutton for punishment but I am hoping the book provides some insight (insight into the movie Blindness hahaha) into WTF happened. I’m serious, I’ll trade you paperback for paperback.

Time to chat a bit about scrappin’ and send a super humungous thank you hug to Jo for finding the page I had sorely missed. Why I could not find it myself, I have no idea. (Humming, ‘if I only had a brain’). I’m going to share this, and other, links with you tonight and call tonight ‘What’s Mine Is Yours’ Thursday.
*Simple Scrapper* is the site I was whining about yesterday. While thumbing through it, you’ll find tips on organization your supplies, digital photography, keeping track of layout credits and so much more. This is the perfect site to gaze over a couple times a week and if you have questions, I’m sure you’ll find the answer here.

*Atomic Cupcake* gives away a free action every Tuesday-Wednesday. Although I’ve never used an action from her, I’ve read many, many good reviews of her stuff.

I just found *Gallery Standouts* a few days back and I am in love. The layouts posted here are stunning, absolutely stunning. This LOin particular caught my attention today. Love it.

Don’t forget *Digi Dares* begins a new challenge tonight.

Okay, one more site before I call it a night and take my tortured head to bed. (See what happens when I talk to my girl child about poetry in the middle of writing a post). Being as I recently acquired a new camera, I LOVE snapping photos and this site *I Love Faces* is so cute. I love it.

If you’re feeling charitable, share a few of your favs with me in the comments section. I’m always looking for a new place to troll.

Make sure to pop back on tomorrow for ‘Friday's Fivers’ and see what I have in store for you.

( =

XOXO
Hugs and Kisses,
Tula

It Takes Two, Baby, It Takes Two, Baby..

2009-02-18T00:54:00.000-08:00

...me and you..
it just takes two."

The other day when I reformatted my machine, I lost my favorites list. It wasn’t such a huge deal for since being as I could recall at least 10 of my most visited places and through those I could find the majority of the rest. But, I can’t find one site I really, really, REALLY like. If I could remember the name, I’m sure it would help enormously. Okay, I thought it was called Simple Scrapping or something like that. It was such a cool site. She listed the top 10 scrapbook blog sites, the best forums to post at, sites that list calls, etc. Such a super site and I can’t find it. If my jumbled description rings any bells with you, I promise to love you forever if you’d pass in that little tidbit of information to moi. Please.

Pretty please.

From now on, each Wednesday will be known as WTH Wednesday. What that means is when you stop by on Wednesdays, I’ll have something fun for you. It could be anything but it’ll be free and it’ll be something you can use. This week’s WTH is a pack of 10 houndstooth papers. From what I read, they’re about to be ‘all the rage’. Who knows, but I do like the look of them. Download and enjoy.

Download Papers **HERE**

Lots of Love,
Muah

P.S. I finally finished reading The Reader and it pretty much reeked. I was completely disappointed in the book. If you really want to know what happens, skip the book and head straight to the theater. Better yet, wait for the dvd.
To go on sale.
At Target.
For $5.

Happy Monday Evening

2009-02-16T19:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday.

Hope ya’ll had a marvelous weekend, mine was decent. Some bug clamped onto me yesterday and would not let go. I woke up with a ghastly sore throat, throbbing headache and my tummy was churning like a washing machine for most of the day. It was one of those times I was basically begging to ‘refund’ but no such luck. How can my tummy hurt so much when it’s completely empty? Being as I was such a joy to be around, I decided to haul my bitchy butt back to bed. I don’t know how pain affects you but when I’m feeling ill I have the most bizarre dreams. I had one dream about giving Steven a couple of hamsters and before I knew it, I was ass high in hamsters trying to find containers to store these multiplying rodents before someone stepped on them of my dog ate them. The dream went on and on, I was sticking them in bird cages (which they kept escaping from), fish tanks and bowls. It was so stressful. Then, I dreamt my DD threw me a surprise party for my birthday with all my favorite female authors in attendance. Alice Walker, Sylvia Plath, Virginia Woolf, so many more, and, of course, Maya Angelou. When I saw Maya A, I started crying, I was so awed to be in her presence. Each woman, in turn, spoke words of encouragement then handed me an autographed book and tickets to wherever they were speaking next. What an amazing dream.

I was so busy thinking about Valentine’s Day and finishing up the last kit, I actually forgot what the date was (figure that one out). The layout I finished for DFF is now a wee bit late. Well, for one category anyway. Thankfully it fit into another. Here’s the layout and the template for you.

Download Template-2 *HERE*

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-13T20:27:00.000-08:00

YaY! It's nearly V Day!! I can hardly wait. Chocolate, flowers and love. Can't beat it.

I promised something for you and here it is. I hope you enjoy it, if so, let me know what you like about it and if you don't care for it, let me know why as well.
Happy Heart's Day to all.

This is just some of the elements in the kit. There's more inside.

Download Papers1 HERE

Download Papers2 HERE

Download Elements1 HERE

Download Elements2 HERE

We got quite a bit rain today bringing the snow level down pretty low. It's absolutely gorgeous.

Three Days To Go..

2009-02-12T13:31:00.000-08:00

I am so exhausted today. Why, I have no clue. I slept well, I think, had odd dreams though. But then, I always have weird dreams. My dreams are not unlike a movie. Large cast, someone's always after me wanting to do away with me, there's usually a love interest (Thank God for that. Once it was Robert Downey Jr)and quite often a happy ending. Hmmmmmmm, that sounds a bit odd, I mean, like in 'they lived happily ever after' happy ending, not the other kind. Anyway..

I feel like crawling back to bed and spending the rest of the day/evening/night there BUT, I really want to finish this kit entitled 'RD You Broke MY Heart'. It's nearly completed, a few more things to do. Thought I'd share a peek with you..

Drop by tomorrow and it's yours.
( =

Ciao

I Like Chocolate Covered Cherries

2009-02-11T15:02:00.000-08:00

Happy Middle of the Week Day.

I‘ve always hated the expression “Hump Day’, sounds so vulgar. Guess that admission makes me sound old and crotchety. Now see, crotchety doesn’t offend me. Hmmmmm, I’m a very strange person.

Hope everyone is having a super duper week. Mine is going muy bueno, taking into consideration I lost all my digital goodies last weekend. For the most part, I’m up and running. I’m still without a few programs and plug-ins I love, and definitely miss, such as Art Rage and Eye Candy Impact. But, I’ll find them eventually. This isn’t the first time I’ve started at zero. By now, you’d think I’d have developed a better backup system than the one I currently use called ‘hold your breath and hope’. Doesn’t work so well, you know? I’ve read the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over but expecting different results. Well, slap my ass and call me loony.

Being as it’s just a few days before V Day, I was planning on posting a goodie for ya’ll. But, and this is after I was so delighted to find the alpha in the jumble that is my backed up files, somehow I failed to ‘glitterize’ the capital A. Yes, I have a red glitter alpha all finished with the exception a one letter. Why did I skip the letter? How could I just leave it incomplete like that? Well, because that’s the way I roll. Hopefully, once I get Art Rage back, I’ll finish it up and will remember this incident from now on.

Here are two tips to always remember and never forget..

Always save while working on a layout, kit or anything else. I know everyone says that but it’s probably one of the best tips ever. Nothing is worse than being nearly finished on a page you love when, boink, your programs freezes, the electricity fails, whatever and you lose it all. Save every few steps.

Back up your files monthly, at least. Also, be sure ALL your files were backed up, (yes, I am a dumbass for not checking that one out). It sucks to lose what you worked so hard on. Back it up, Baby.

Also, one more thing I’ve learned, comments are cool and make bloggers feel good, at least they make this blogger (me) feel good. When I started this blog/designer/freebie thingie I swore to myself I would never beg for “love” like I’ve seen on so many other blogs, and I’m going to hold to that, but, I just thought I’m mention, it does feel cool when someone says something nice in the comments. So, to those of you who have stopped by and left a lil ‘love’, thanks, it was much appreciated. To those of you who didn’t, no big. ( =

Okies, I’m off to finish up this next kit. Tomorrow I’ll post a peek.

Much love,
Tula

Back In The Saddle Again

2009-02-09T11:50:00.000-08:00

Happy Happy Monday!

Just wanted to pop in to start this week off with a post. Ya’ll know how stable a blogger I am. But I am trying, as if that counts for anything.

It’s been rainging all weekend and this morning. I love the rain though. The sound, the smell, the feel of it on my skin. Of course it’s not as pleasant to bop in the downpour here in Cali as it was in Hawaii. Although it rains every single day on the island of Oahu, the water is warm and the minute the sun shows back up 10 minutes later, you dry right up. Rain is wonderful.

Anyway, since all my goodies have vanished, I have much to do to replace what I can and I would like to finish the other Valentine kit sheltered in my mind. Shown below is a template I whipped up for ya’ll. You’’ll notice the colors are a bit odd for a template, that’s because they are the shades of my new kit. Help yourself, I hope you enjoy it. And cross your fingers that I can tap my fingers quick enough to finish my next kit my Friday.

Download template **HERE**

Cupid draw back your bow
And let your arrow go
Straight to my lover's heart for me

Cupid please hear my cry
And let your arrow fly
Straight to my lover's heart for me

Wow, not only do I know the lyrics to this song but I know who sang it as well. Do you?

Love ya’,
Tula

I heart Seth Meyers

2009-02-08T08:27:00.000-08:00

“After two of his top Cabinet nominees withdrew their bids on Tuesday because of their failure to pay back taxes, President Obama said: ‘This was a mistake. I screwed up.’ THAT’S your mistake? I don’t know if you remember, but the last guy BROKE THE WORLD.” ~ Seth Myers

Alas, woe is me. All is now well in Tu-Town. While the world dwells on such stories as Michael Phelps, Alex Rodriquez and people floating away from the US on an ice float, the true tragedy occurred right in my own living room at my desk on this very computer. My heart is in tatters, my spirit has succumbed to sorrow. for I… am a dumbass.

After the disappearance of the two files on Friday (the two files being the add ons to my kit), I was certain it was well past time to reorganize my files. And due to incredulousness crawl of my connection (Verizon sucks!), I felt it best to backup and reformat as well. How exciting to work with a clean slate. Well, to make a long, drawn out, mind-numbingly tedious story short (too late, yes I know), my machine is nice and clean without so many useless information cluttering my files. Such worthless documents as MY SCRAPBOOK FOLDERS!!! ::sighs:: Yes, it appears as if I definitely pissed on the scrapbook fairy cause she has been kicking the crap out of me these past few days. Please, someone enlighten me as to how, not only using an external hardrive designed for backup but moving certain files directly onto a flash drive, yet, somehow the files ARE NOT THERE!!! I have lost all my scrapbook stuff. All. Not only that but also, all my *favorites*. How the frick does that happen? All the kits I had in progress, all the kits I purchased, all my templates, glitters, scrap pages I’d designed from last year (thank God for DFF). I’m stunned. How, when I took extra precautions, did I lose the three files I most wanted to preserve? I am seriously stumped. I have absolutely no idea how these files were not backed up. Perhaps an exorcism is in order, there must be some form of goblin in my computer whom shall hereby be known as Eris. There MUST be some iniquitous imp eating my sacred collection as if it isn’t one of them then it was meeeeeeeeeeeeeeee (line from Liar Liar). Oh well, life marches on…

It looks like I shall have my hands full for awhile.

I could whine and moan, throw myself to the floor, kick my feet and scream but I’m not too sure that will actually correct the situation. Believe me, if I have any inkling at all it would, I’d have spent the morning causing severe damage to this grey nappy carpet. As my daddy would remind me, I didn’t lose any of the photos I’ve been so faithfully shooting or any that I could never replace. Everything else is replaceable, on some level. So, I’ll pick myself up, dust myself off and start all over again (have you noticed I speak in quotes and lyrics a lot?).

Much love,

“I’ll be back”
(he hee he)

If you get up one more time than you fall, you will make it through.
~ Chinese Proverb

(&)(*)(^)&((&^%&

2009-02-07T09:12:00.000-08:00

Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!! After losing a couple files due to my lack of organization or, to put it bluntly, my lazy ass who didn't feel like filing things away, and, because my connection sucked because of faulty do-it-yourself loading (this one was not MY fault ::pointing at the husband::), I choose to re-format my machine. And, once again, because of my lackadaisical approach, I seem to have misplaced my *favorites*. It also slipped my mind that I would need to reload all my programs. DUH! I honestly believe rain leaked into my head and short-circuited my brain lately. I have been playing the dunce as if I have a chance at an Oscar for my role. So, I shall be up to my hard drive in re-organization for the next few days. Wish me luck.

( =

Blame it on the rain
Blame it on the stars
Whatever you do don't put the blame on you
Blame it on the rain yeah yeah
You can blame it on the rain

It's Raining, It's Pouring..

2009-02-05T09:52:00.000-08:00

I tried and tried to upload my kit to 4shared.com without much luck. I'd lose my connection nearly each and every time which explains why I broke my kit into so many files. Finally, this morning I had enough and went looking for a new file hosting site. After reading up on a few, I choose Mediafire and my uploads went right through. It wasn't me, I didn't think it was me, it was 4shared. Bleeck. So, here it is once again, my first kit.

Download Papers 1 **HERE**

Download Papers 2 **HERE**

Download Elements **HERE**

It's raining just a bit so I'm going to take the pooch for a quick romp before the deluge sets in. I'll pop back with a freebie a tad later.

Love ya.
( =

A Scrappers Work Is Never Done..

2009-02-04T13:29:00.000-08:00

Brrrrrr, it’s cold this morning. The weatherman is threatening us with rain which is totally cool with me because I love nothing better than to climb back into bed on a wet afternoon snuggle under my comforter with a cup of hot chocolate, a few cookies and my book. Maybe I should bake some chocolate peanut butter cookies just in case. I know the boys will be thrilled with the goodies seeing as it’s been awhile since I’ve baked anything other than chicken. I need to be in the mood for baking and I just haven’t been in that place lately. Perhaps it’s because I have both boys living back at home, not to mention their father, and these boys are so messy. After a constant influx of testosterone and wading through hip high trash (okay, perhaps I’m embellishing a tad), one of the very last things I feel like doing is breaking out the bowls and get to baking. We’ll see, I guess I could toss in a pan of brownies. Chocolate sounds so yum right now.

I’ve spent the morning fixing my goodies. Revamping my kit, fixing the LO I finished yesterday. I was so unhappy with the LO, that it weighed on my mind until I finally redid it. Part of my problem in life stems from the fact I am a perfectionist. It truly drives me nuts. The simplest task takes me at least twice as long as it should because everything needs to be exactly right. I bet I have 6 nearly finished kits just waiting for the final touch. They weren’t ‘right’ enough. And to think I’m better now, hard to believe I was so much worse. But, I did fix the LO and the kit. I’ll try to upload the links today. And a super duper thank you for Jo and Cassie and Spooky for all your wonderful feedback and help. You’re da bomb. ::muah:: (I so used to hate that kissy thing back when I actually did chatrooms, long long ago).

This is the first one I did but I just didn't like it. So I did this one..

I like this one much better.

And Because I love ya'll so very much, I have another free goodie for you.

It matches my 'Heard It In A Love Song' Kit (if I ever get that re-uploaded). Hope you can use it.
Download HERE

I'm going to try to load the kit back and my 365 photos.
Wish me luck.
( =

YaY! It Takes Awhile But I Can Still Get It Up

2009-02-02T13:46:00.000-08:00

Happy Black History Month.

Fact ~ "For our oldest daughter (Malia), every night when Barack is home they're reading the whole Harry Potter series. She loves Harry Potter. He reads to her even though she is a great reader."
Michelle Obama

This is one of my most favorite days of the year. Wanna know why? Because football is over!! As you can probably deduce from my statement, I am not what one would consider a fan of football. I’ll admit it, I don’t like football. I don’t enjoy watching it or talking about it and I am thrilled the season is over with. YaY!

Speaking of football, Bruce Springsteen performing at half-time brought up a none-too-friendly dialogue with my eldest who deems Michael Jackson to be a better musician/performer than ‘The Boss’. Of course, my opinion differs enormously. MJ is, or rather was, without question, a talented writer/singer/dancer but as we can all see, he failed to stand the test of time. I loved MJ and the J5, I even went to see them in concert when I was 16ish but his music never seemed to mature, IMO. ‘The Boss’, on the other hand, has not only aged, as in a fine wine, his music has as well. It’s difficult to compare the two in the first place, they are entirely two different types but, in my book, ‘The Boss’ rules.

Watching “The View” while attempting to upload this kit (without luck I may add), anyone else just want to smack Elizabeth Hasslebeck? I didn’t much care for her pre-election and now, yuck. She is so obnoxious.

I am so excited that it’s February already. I may have mentioned once or 28 times, I love Valentine’s Day. Twelve more days. YaY! And, I love the beginning of the month because all the forums release new challenges. Thrilling. I’ve only been posting at DFF and occasionally over at so, my goal this month is to post in 3 other forums. Where to start, where to start? I like it though, I like going to new places, even if it’s only on the web.

Wow, it only took 3 days to upload my kit. Hmmmm, gotta find a way to fix that. Anyway..
Here it is..

Download Papers 1 **HERE**

Download Papers 2 **HERE**

Download Elements **HERE**

This is my very first REAL kit and it's all a freebie for you. Happy Valentine's Day. As for me I like chocolate covered cherries. Please, download it, use it and get back to me with a few comments such as..

1. Is this something you would use?
2. Is this the kind of kit you would purchase?
3. Two or three things you like about the kit.
4. Two or three things you don't like.
5. Any suggestions?

I truly want to get better at this so any advice will be greatly appreciated.
( =

I'll be back later with my project 365 photos.

Much love.

Super Sunday

2009-02-01T06:27:00.000-08:00

Edited because my connection sucks!!

I promise somehow to have the kit up by tonight. I keep losing my connection and have to start uploading all over again. Very soon I am going to switch ISP.

Keep your fingers crossed tha my uploading goes well.

( =

Happy Saucy Saturday

2009-01-31T11:29:00.000-08:00

Happy Saturday!

I was just reading the latest post over at *Jennsylvania* (who is my new favorite person/writer simply because I believe snotty/sarcastic people should have each other’s backs), she was writing about not having a ‘thing’ when it occurred to me I also do not have a ‘thing’. I’m not sure I ever had a thing ‘thing’, not one particular ‘thing’ to call my own. I could bake, I could cook, I could sew, perhaps it was sewing that may have been considered my ‘thing’ when the kids were real little but definitely not in the past 15 years. That’s quite awhile of not having a ‘thing’. Like I mentioned, I baked and cooked but Lauren (my darling daughter) has taken that ‘thing’ as her own. Hell, I hate cleaning up the mess anyway so she’s more than welcome to it. Hmmmmmmmmmm, I burn music and movies for my children but that’s not really a ‘thing’ since 2 of them live at home with me and the other lives far enough away that I only see her on special occasions. I read a lot but that’s too boring to be a ‘thing’ cause most people I know don’t read so I could just as well be talking to myself when discussing the current paperback which has grabbed my attention. Hmmmmmm, I’ll have to think of something.

My kit is nearly complete; I am so thrilled to say. Problem is, I don’t know what to do at this point. I haven’t exactly been advertising my blog, as a matter of fact, if you didn’t trip over my link and accidentally fall into my site, you probably wouldn’t be here now. So, what do I do? I just don’t know. Hmmmmmmmmmm..

My thing could be singing, I love singing. Except everyone who has ever heard me, (okay not EVERYONE. One poor fool actually liked the sound of my voice but that’s another story for another time) has actually begged me, pleaded with me as blood oozed out of their ears to please, PLEASE stop that God awful cacophony (is that not an amazing word?). My ‘thing’ at one time was being the “English” girl; I corrected everyone’s grammatical and spelling errors. Most people didn’t care much for that ‘thing’ so I moved on.

As a blogger, do you visit sites of those who post a comment to you? I visit quite a few sites but rarely leave a message, mainly because many of the blogs are extremely popular with 100 plus remarks already. I don’t much appreciate getting lost in the shuffle. It’s a tad too early for me to get in line to answer calls being as I’ve almost finished one kit and most calls I’ve seen request the last 3. And the way I work on these things, I may not be finished with 3 items until sometime in June. “Always late but worth the wait” as I always say.

I just realized what my ‘thing’ is, I’m the ‘One With The Camera’. I was perusing through some photo from Thanksgiving when I noticed the look on the faces of Lauren and Steven, as if they were both thinking “oh God, not Mom with the camera again”. I like that. My ‘thing’ is being the crazy woman with the camera. YaY! I found my ‘thing’.

Okies, before I depart I have an update on the issue which has me straddling the brink of aggravated obsession. The woman who spewed 8 precious babies out of her over used womb conceived all 14 (yes, 4 frickin’ teen children altogether) through in vitro fertilization. And, on top of that, she’s not married. In my extremely ‘humble’ opinion, everyone involved in this ludicrous act displayed nothing but carelessness and irresponsibility toward the lives of the innocents. Did any of these reprehensible fame whores take a second to wonder about the damage these children could possibly face? An unwed mother raising 14 little souls, the oldest of which is 7, am I the only one who sees this as a nefarious deed? Does it make me an awful person that I want to strangle these people with the umbilical cords that united 8 sweet souls to what could only be called a breeder bitch? Okay, time to cease and desist my rant before I really become annoyed.

Well, back to work. I’ll be back later with a peek of the kit and a few photos.

Love ya,
Muah.

Happy WTF Friday!

2009-01-30T11:45:00.001-08:00

Happy Friday!

I have decided to call this WTF Friday. I rarely bring up events in the RW (real world). We all hear the news; most of us come here to escape the atrocities so why dwell on it. But, this story has irked me beyond normality. The woman in California who just gave birth to 8 babies has 6 children at home already. WTF!! I have to admit, this annoys the crap out of me.

My first WTF ~ why does a woman who has 6 children need fertility treatments? She doesn’t. She has 6 children, more than enough for most people. STOP already. Let another woman have a chance.

My second WTF ~ what doctor in their right mind who in-vitro a mother of 6 with 8 embryos without demanding counseling? Now, I am assuming (and we all know what that means) the mother was not counseled, perhaps she was, but then, I cannot image a therapist who would encourage her to produce more children when she has half a dozen at home already.

My third WTF ~ who is paying the bills now and later? Yes, I am becoming one of ‘those people’ and I’m not ashamed of it. Again, I am assuming (obviously I am an ass) but I don’t know very many families who can afford to raise a few children let alone 14. Wow. Perhaps I’m taking all this far too personal but I would have loved to have more children. We have 3 and although I wanted to have at least another baby, 3 was all we could house and cloth and educate at that time. Not to mention we all have only 24 hours a day, trying to find quality time for all 3 wasn’t an easy task. I think it’s extremely important to be room parent, take part in the PTA, coach their soccer or t-ball or swimming team, volunteer in the classrooms, take walks, have picnics, etc.

Perhaps it’s just me but, 6 children are way more than enough.
Someone should have just said no to drugs.

BTW, my father would have kicked my ass for popping out 6 babies in the first place and I’m afraid to even consider the punishment he would have inflicted upon me had I even considered fertility assistance

Okay, enough of my ranting.

I just threw together a page used the Friday Freebie and the sketch template over at Digital Freebies. I’ve been looking for a few more forums to post at but DFF is my favorite. It’s like home. Here’s my LO..

and a few of my Project 365 photos..

As V Day is coming closer and closer, if you are in need of a gift (if I win, I’m gifting myself), pop over to Happy Daisy for the chance to win a super cute hand stamped charm necklace. I love presents.

I’ll be sure to toss a few things together for a freebie by tomorrow and hopefully (cross your fingers), I’ll have my very first real kit ready for release no later than Monday. YaY me!

Ya’ll have a wonderfully weekend.
( =

This is way too cute..

And you HAVE to watch this one..

LoL

Zoom Zoom

2009-01-29T08:28:00.000-08:00

Hard to believe it’s already Thursday, not to mention that it’s nearly February. Where does the time go? I feel as if I open my eyes on Monday morning and the next thing I know, I’m going to bed on Sunday night. Zoom zoom.

Also, I can’t believe I haven’t blogged since Sunday. Wow, I really am off my game this week. I’ve been working on a couple of kits I want to release on February 1st and it seems I become a tad preoccupied in the whole creation process. I love it. I love watching images come together; by putting a circle here and a few more there a flower appears. I love paying with the colors. Before I know it, hours have passed. The thing is, I’m still so new at all this it takes me a very long time to complete a kit. Weeks. How long does it take for you to complete a kit? How do you decide what you want in the kit? I can’t believe it’s been 4 days since I’ve posted. Zoom zoom zoom

Bitter is the New Black by Jen Lancaster that’s the book I picked up Sunday while I was gritting my teeth at Costco. When I first started reading it I wasn’t all that taken. The dialogue between characters seemed juvenile to me. But once I ventured further into the meat of the story, it becomes much better. The protagonist (Jen) has a bit of a bite to her but it’s her snobby attitude that endears her to me. Now, promise you won’t tell a soul, but I suppose I was somewhat like her once upon a time. Snotty, sarcastic, cynical and definitely mocking. I love her wit, it has me LOL quite often. If you’re in the market for something little and amusing, pick it up.

Here are my latest layouts.

Project 365

Another Pleasant Valley Sunday...

2009-01-25T23:19:00.000-08:00

..
Another Pleasant Valley Sunday
Here in status symbol land
Mothers complain about how hard life is
And the kids just don't understand

I love that song.

Happy Sunday.

What an amazingly glorious day it is here in SoCal. The sun is shining, warming us up against the gently cool ocean breeze keeping us cool. I just love the day after a rain storm. The sky is a beautiful blue filled with white cotton candy clouds.

The hills have come alive in gorgeous shades of green.

This is the ideal afternoon to go picnicking, stroll along the beach, read a book by the pool or even simply sit on the front porch drinking a glass of strawberry lemonade listening to a little John Mayer. Now that’s how I would have liked to have spent my day, instead, I did my grocery shopping. I’ve always done my shopping on Sundays; as far back as I can remember. I hit Ralphs or Vons, Target, Costco and, sometimes, even Michaels. We’d do breakfast or lunch and then stock up for the week. So, today, we headed out for our weekly task, as usual, as did a few hundred other people. Vons was a tad more busy than normal but Costco, Oh. My. Gosh! Complete and total zoo.
I could kick my own ass for going there on a Sunday, but it’s never been this bad before, not even at Christmas. Yuck. We finally finished squeezing in here and oozing out there, then grabbed some Jack-In-The-Box (yes, I know it’s crap food but it’s yum crap food) and headed home where I curled up under my covers (after the provisions had been packed away) with Pooder and my new Scrapbooks, Etc. magazine. Perfect way to end a busy morning.

I haven’t been scrappin’ much the past two days because I’ve been working on a couple Valentine kits. Perhaps I’ve mentioned this before, I LOVE Valentine’s Day. Love it. I love Godiva’s chocolates and Stargazers and cute cards with sweet sayings. Needless to say, I’m having a hard time dragging myself away from pink and purple and red hearts. I’ll be giving pieces of it away off and on until the 14th. I just love Valentine’s Day.

I’ll be back with today’s freebie.

Here’s a few of today’s (and yesterday’s) photos.

Okies, here's a goodie for you. I love the look of glitter so I fixed up a few blingies.

Download **HERE**

Forgiveness Friday and a Little Freebie

2009-01-23T21:37:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am seeking forgiveness. I haven't been around for a few days, I haven't forgotten my vows, it's just that my computer and Verizon haven't been very co-operative. I would go into the entire tale of the past few days but, do you really care? I'm sure ya'll have your own stories of bad service and impossible situations. Anyway, I am back. YaY!
( =

I did get some LOs finished. This one, for example, which was posted at DDF..

The others, 3 more, I haven't posted yet so I'll wait before showing them.

I've continued with Project 365. Here are a few photos.

I love Valentine's Day, it's my definitely favorite holiday. This is my first year scrappin' the day and I can hardly wait. I love the hearts, the chocolate, the cards, the flowers, the sweet little gifts. I love it all. So, because I love this special day so much, I'm starting on it now and I made something especially with you in mind. ( =

Download **Here**

Martin Luther King Day

2009-01-19T17:50:00.000-08:00

Happy MLK Day!

Hope everyone had a great weekend. Mine was…hmmmmmmm, we’ll just call it relaxing. Other than shopping and scrapping, with a little photo-taking on the side, I didn’t do much of anything. Watched a few movies (Batman, Eagle Eye and Fred Claus), played on the computer, pretty much just vegged out.

It’s a beautiful day here, 80-ish degrees. I’m so glad the warmer weather is back, I miss summer. I’m more of a warm weather, hang out at the beach type of person than to stay bundled up and inside. Bleeck! Hurry, hurry sunshine.

As per my vow, I finished one layout and am putting the final touches on another. Tomorrow is ‘work on kit’ day. Hard to imagine doing nothing else except design a kit. How does one design a kit? Colors first? Or Elements? Theme or does that come later? Do you map it out or simply take it one step at a time? I’d really like to know. Tell me, tell me, tell me. Please.
( =

(Damn it. My connection is so bad. I'll try to upload my photos, etc. Ya'll have a brilliant night.)

Playing with the focus on these two.

Sunday, January 18th, 2009

2009-01-18T14:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Sunday.
( =

I have decided it’s time to take my blog seriously, to make it more of a daily commitment. If I want people to actually drop by there needs to be something worth coming here for. Suppose I should give away a few freebies. Suppose I should actually put in a bit of effort to advertise my blog. Suppose I should poo or get off the potty. Okay, starting tomorrow (Oh God, how I LOVE tomorrow!) I vow to post at the very least 4 times a week. I vow to post a freebie at least 3 times a week. I vow to post a new kit once a week. There now, it’s in writing or typing, whatever, here it is. If you’ve heard this all before from me, ignore all those other promises, these are legit.

Remember, Too Legit To Quit?

Today, being Sunday, was shopping day. We hit Ralph’s for groceries and Target because I needed new sunglasses. Picked them up for under $20. Hard to believe I once paid over $200 for green and blue Oakleys. Once upon a long time ago. We were lucky we went early, hardly anyone out yet and we flew right through. Got a some photo taking time in as well. I love using my camera. I could spend the entire day doing nothing but take photos. Playing with my camera and scrapping are just about neck and neck when it comes to my new favorite thing to do. Love them both.

Here’s one of my new LOs.

Rarely did I ever black and white a photo and when I did, it was for a challenge. I love color. I find it difficult to remove the bright, brilliant colors from a photo. But, I’ve been experimenting with non-people subjects and I must admit, I like it. It does seem to give photos and artsy look. Next week’s goal will be (as well as keeping to my vows) to use at least 1 black and white person photo in a layout. Sounds good to me.

Finally Friday!

2009-01-16T15:51:00.000-08:00

YaY for Fridays! Don't you just love Fridays? They are so the best. But then, I love Sundays and Mondays and Tuesdays and Thursdays too. It's not that I hate Saturdays or Wednesdays, they're just a tad boring. Fridays though, just the best.

I've been pursuing through other people's Project 365 blogs and, I hate to mention this, but, I suck at this. I take the photos, that's not the problem, it's posting them where I fail. Why is it I can't blog? Nothing much exciting happens to me. I live a fairly drab life. I scrap, read, watch tv and/or movies, listen to music, sleep and eat. All that's pretty tough to make sound exciting. I suppose I could write about my dreams, they're a little out there. Nest time.

Okay, time to post my photos for the last few days. Here goes..

Tuesday..

Wednesday..

Thursday..

Friday..

Well, I guess that will have to wait my connection is being a bitch so I'll try again later.

Caio.

Example

2009-01-16T15:16:00.000-08:00

You Look Mavaaaaaaalous Monday!!

2009-01-12T13:55:00.001-08:00

Happy Monday!!

YaY! Good news, I got my camera!! I finally went to pick it up Friday, which I should have done last Tuesday but why should I have had to? Anyway, I absolutely LOVE it! It is so fab. It is the bomb. So, here are my photos for Project 365.

Friday ~ 1/09

This is my dog Pooder. I think The Bunny House stole my pet's name. She has the sad look in her eyes because I had to pretend to be leaving her in order to get her to actually look at me. Take photos of animals is a lot harder than I imagined.

Saturday ~ 1/10

Sunday ~ 1/11

Monday ~ 1/12

Even though I'm not great, I love taking pictures.

I also finished 2 more pages this weekend. First, this one..

"Puppy Dog Eyes"

and this one..

"Colors"

Still Frickin' Pissed Friday

2009-01-09T10:14:00.000-08:00

Yup, I'm sure you guessed by now, I STILL have not received my camera as of yet. Frickin' post office. I can't believe the horrendous service I am getting from these people. My own fault I suppose, I should have taken my butt into town to pick the package up Wednesday. Even though I shouldn't have to, at least I would have my camera by now. Cross your fingers that I actually get it when I go in today. Freakin' people.

I've been posting over at The Digi Chick forum this past week and I really like it. Their challenges are a tad tough for me but that's what I'm in need of, stretching myself. Here's a LO I finished and posted there this morning..

And I never forget my first love, DFF. I purchased the kit Full Circle by Angela Sharrow and Maria LaFrance (and if you remember, I buy very few kits) and it is absolutely gorgeous. I love it. Here's the page I posted this morning as well..

I really love scrappin'. Really.

( =

Too Cold Thursday

2009-01-08T04:15:00.001-08:00

Here it is two days later and the frickin' postperson has yet to deliver my camera. I am seriously thinking about 'going postal' all over his ass. All I want is my camera. I have been patient. Very patient, for me anyway, and now it's time to hand over my goodies. I even called the post office yesterday after the post person once again left a 'tried to deliver' notice when I know for a frickin' fact he did not. That's what is annoying me the most about this situation, he can't lift his skinny butt out of his seat to walk over here and ring the bell. Hell, he can even sit in his vehicle honking his horn for all I care and I'll waddle my fat ass to him. I JUST WANT MY CAMERA!!

Enough whining for ya?

I just finished up the LO I was working on. How long does it take you to design a page from start to finish? I usually take a few hours. Since I'm taken up scrappin' I've been trying to design my own kits. It's fun and it allows me to feel a sense of creative accomplishment but it does take me awhile. Here's my page called "Trees"..

Your Snow Test Says You're Independent

You feel like something good will happen to you eventually, but not soon.

You love to work, especially when work is physical. You do well in any job, as long as you're not stuck in an office.

You are an independent, individualistic person. You thrive when you're doing your own thing.

Your biggest worry in life is your family. You stay up at night thinking about them.

When it comes time to relax, you always go the extra mile. You take relaxing as seriously as anything else in life.

The Snow Test

WTH Wednesday.

2009-01-07T06:32:00.000-08:00

It is soooooooooooooo cold here! 38-ish degrees, believe me, that is cold for south Cali. If I didn't have things to do today, I would take my chilly butt back to bed. But, alas, I can not. I'm waiting for the mailperson to deliver my camera. The little shit (pardon my potty mouth) simple dropped a 'we missed you' notice in my box yesterday without even bothering to come to the door. I have been so anxiously awaiting this package and here it was within 25 feet of me without me even getting a chance to get my hands on it. How annoying is that? But I'll show him/her, I'm going to be on the look out this morning. No way I'm going to let it get away another day.

I don't know if ya'll are familiar with **Wacom Pen Scrappers**, they hold a contest for a Bamboo and I entered the contest. YaY me!! I'm always afraid to enter anything or even to join a new forum because I just don't think my pages are good enough. Long psychological issue for another time. But, this year one of my 'can do's' (borrowed the term from Kate Hudson) is to be braver, have more confidence, try new things and, sometimes, just leap. Okay, so maybe that's actually 4 things, perhaps I should add 'study math' to the list. So, if you have a moment, pop over to 'My Page'. If you do, I promise to repay the vote when you need one. If you do it every single day until January 31st, I pledge my undying affection. ( =

Here is the page I submitted..

and this is the LO I finished for a scraplift at DFF..

I'm not overly happy with them. I've been trying something new, filling the page whereas I usually scrap very simply. I'm trying to do things differently to see if I like them. Not so sure. Ya never know unless you try, right?

Well, I'm off to get a few things done.
Ciao.
( =

Monday

2009-01-05T13:55:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday!
Hope ya'll had a wonderful weekend. Mine was definitely full and a bit emotional. I spend Saturday with my relatives, which is always fun but also immensely draining. Sunday was grocery shopping then helping Steven pack. He left this morning for Riverside county where he'll be working as a substitute teacher for awhile. I know it will be so much better for him but I miss him already. He's the baby and it's so hard to let him go. Such is the life of a mom.

Tomorrow my camera should be here and I am SO EXCITED!!! I can hardly wait. I want to join in on the 365 days of photos but my little Pentax sucks. The photos turn out so horrible, I am so hoping it's not me. Keep your fingers crossed but, if it is me, there's no where to go but up.

Here are the few pics I have taken..

This is my aunt's dog Dollie. We had a great time playing together.

This was our Christmas fire.

Random palm tree

And another one. I love trees.

And this is the LO I made from a couple of the photos..

Time to toss a little dinner in the oven.

Ciao
( =

Resolutions, Anyone?

2009-01-03T08:48:00.000-08:00

Here it is the third day of this brand new year and I have yet to make any type of list whatsoever. Not that I ever make resolutions, I don't, I prefer to make a 'things I want to do this year' list. Such as..

1. Visit New York during the Christmas season
2. Go see John Mayer in concert
3. Start a scrapbook design business
4. Learn a little French
5. Read at least 50 books

I'd rather have a 'things to do' list than a 'what not to do' list. It's much more fun.

Okie dokie, I'm out of here for awhile. I get to spend the day with my father and my relatives on that side. Lucky me. I tried to get at least one of the folks from here to accompany me but no way. I'm on my own. Oh well..

Here's the LO I finished this morning..

Have a brillant day.
( =

Happy New Year

2009-01-02T07:36:00.000-08:00

"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you've imagined. As you simplify your life, the laws of the universe will be simpler."
~ Henry David Thoreau

Wow, first day of the year and I have done very little. I stuffed my belly full of crap I shouldn't be eating, I sat around watching "Bring It On" for the umpteenth time (I love that movie), and I worked on a LO, FINALLY!! I've been caught in the clutches of a nasty brain block I've been doing my best to wiggle out of. Perhaps the curse has been broken, maybe not, only time will tell. Here is the LO I finished for DFF entitled "Thinks You Think"..

Funny how this past year flew by so quickly but I feel as if these days are creeping by as slowly as possible. It's almost as if they know I'm awaiting something special so they (I'm not sure who 'THEY' is) as purposely trying my patience, of which I have very, very few. I purchased a camera from another poster over at DFF and I can barely stand the wait. I want it NOW!! I want it NOW!! I want it NOW!! I feel like the lady in the Mervyns commercial, "Open, Open, Open". Please, hurry.

I'm off to work on a few more LOs.
caio
( =

Remember..

2008-12-31T00:59:00.000-08:00

No texting while driving beginning tomorrow. Really? Not only do people need to be told not to text while behind the wheel of a vehicle weighing a ton or more but the government needs to pass a law to punish these chatty Cathys. Now I don't profess to be Glenda the Good Witch of the freeway, I speed on occasion, don't always use my blinker and, yes, I have parked in a 'no parking zone' once or 8 times but I NEVER EVER text while driving. May as well drive with a blindfold on.

Anyway, have a safe and sane, maybe not too sane, New Year's. I'll be curled up under my covers with my usual date, Dick Clark. Have a happy.

( =

BLEECK!

2008-12-20T13:05:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am still sick. This frickin' cold is driving me nuts. Today is the day I give in, take some meds and go back to bed. I totally feel like lukewarm toad poo.

So you know I was thinking of you, here's a little freebie. Can you guess my favorite part of Christmas are the trees?

Haaaaaaaaave a good one.

Download Freebie **Here**

Have A Little Cheese With Your Whine..

2008-12-19T13:22:00.001-08:00

Yes, I know, I am a bad, bad, BAD blogger. I'm trying but, so far, I'm just not much of a poster. I think about it, I go to do it, then, something else comes up and I am completely sidetracked. This blog has been up for months. I post regularly for awhile then decide I don't like it, delete every thing and start over. That's where I am now, starting all over again, again.

I hate to say 'I told you so' but 'I told you so'. I am sick. Not 'pneumonia-on-my-deathbed-last-rights' sick, more like 'headachey-ears-plugged-nose-runny-eyes-watery-Vicks-me-up-and-let-me-sleep' sick. Of course, staying in bed all day with a book doesn't happen on a normal day let alone 6 days before Christmas. Since we're all trekking up to my beautiful daughter's new home for the holiday, I don't need to worry about food shopping or over cleaning the house for company (Hallelujah!) but I still have wrapping and baking and packing (oh my) to do. So, I'm dosing myself up on ibuprofen and Benadryl hoping I can finish a few things up. ::fingers-crossed::

One of my favorite pastimes, (besides reading, scrappin' and, well, every thing else) is website hopping, following a link from one site to another. I am so awed at the all the amazingly talented people out there in digi-world. The creative-fairy has definitely beat the crap out of them with her wand. I am completely flabbergasted. Here are just a couple links to some super duper sites.

Day To Day
Britt-ish Designs Scoot on down to the Dec 18th post and check out the adorable necklaces she made for her book club members. I gotta join a book club.

Okie dokie, it's bout time to toss some dinner in the oven, I need to work on my Christmas kit I promise to post by Monday and I have a scrap LO to complete. Here's a quick little goodie for ya'll just cause ya'll are just so darned special.
( =

Happy Holidays,
Tula

Download Freebie HERE

Bad Day Today

2008-12-11T14:01:00.000-08:00

I'm having quite a cranky day today. My oldest has a nasty cold, coughing all over the house, I'd tent him if I could. It's only a matter of time before the youngest, who's name I am no longer allowed to mention, long story - I'll get to it eventually - will from henceforth be known as 'He Who Will Not Be Named' (a bit too much Harry Potter-ish if you ask me), comes down with it, then their father and, of course, then me. Last night I just couldn't seem to fall asleep, I dozed but I couldn't deep dream state. Just tossing, turning. Needless to say, today I'm exhausted, headachey, my attention span is running neck and neck with that of a gnat's (and I'm working on two kits I hope to post before tomorrow - don't see that happening), I'm cranky and crotchety and crabby (oh my), and there's this frickin' fly in the house dive-bombing me. Did I mention the cable (for the TV) is out as well so The Heir To The Throne is not only wheezing and whimpering about feeling 'icky' and now he's also whining about the lack of visual stimulation. If I were a smart woman, IF being the key word here, I would take my bottom to bed, curl up under my covers and lose myself in a book but..who would clean the house, do the laundry, cook dinner? Alas, it is I who will bear the burden and complete these tasks. Send me your wishes for strength because I shall be in great need of it.

Anyway, I decided to play with this little questionnaire for awhile. These aren't something I usually do but I needed something to keep my mind busy for a few, kind of like jump starting it or bringing it back to a happier place.

Hope you're having a better day than me and I'll be back at another time in a better frame of mind.

À bientôt

Questions ~

1. Started your own blog - Ummmhmmmmmmm
2. Slept under the stars - Yes
3. Played in a band - Not a real band but when I was about 10-ish, my next-door neighbors, my cousin and I started a garage band with homemade instruments. We were horrible.
4. Visited Hawaii - Yes
5. Watched a meteor shower - A couple times
6. Given more than you can afford to charity - Sadly, no
7. Been to Disneyland - I grew up in Cali, so yes, a million billion times and always ready to go again.
8. Climbed a mountain - Yes and fell down one too
9. Held a praying mantis - I think I did when I was a small child but I can't swear on it.
10. Sang a solo - Yes, but only in my house, my backyard and my car and people always tell me to hush.
11. Bungee jumped - No thank you.
12. Visited Paris - Not yet
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea - No
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch - Yes
15. Adopted a child - I would love to but not yet
16. Had food poisoning - No
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty - No
18. Grown your own vegetables - Yes, the most delicious tomatoes ever.
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France - No
20. Slept on an overnight train - Yes
21. Had a pillow fight - Of course, I'm a girl.
22. Hitch hiked - Yes
23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill - Often and several. Work sucks.
24. Built a snow fort - No
25. Held a lamb - No
26. Gone skinny dipping - Yes
27. Run a Marathon - No but I would love to
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice - No, again, I would love to.
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run - Many time, in backyard baseball, of course
32. Been on a cruise - No
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person - No
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors - Depends on how far back you mean. A couple generations, to Virginia and North Carolina, yes, back further, to Scotland or England or Ireland, no.
35. Seen an Amish community - No but I met a couple and their baby on the train once. Beautiful people.
36. Taught yourself a new language - No, still working on it.
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied - Yes, money isn't what it takes to truly satisfy me.
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person - Not yet
39. Gone rock climbing - Nope
40. Seen Michelangelo's David - Not the real one, just the one in front of the Wax Museum.
41. Sung karaoke - No, no one will let me.
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt - Nope
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant - No
44. Visited Africa - No
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight - Yes, in Hawaii. I think it's a law.
46. Been transported in an ambulance - Yes
47. Had your portrait painted - Not painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing - Yes
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person - No, would love to
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris - No
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling - Yes, in Hawaii
52. Kissed in the rain - Yes with Robbie Schwainer. It was amazing.
53. Played in the mud - Often
54. Gone to a drive-in theater - Oh yeah. Loved it.
55. Been in a movie - Nothing I can show.
56. Visited the Great Wall of China - Nope
57. Started a business - I'm about to
58. Taken a martial arts class - No
59. Visited Russia - No
60. Served at a soup kitchen - No and I'm definitely starting to feel really guilty
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies - Yeah
62. Gone whale watching - No
63. Got flowers for no reason - Yes
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma - No
65. Gone sky diving - No way
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp - No
67. Bounced a check - Ooooops.
68. Flown in a helicopter - No
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy - None of mine but I do have several of my kids.
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial - No
71. Eaten Caviar _ Bleeck, no thanks
72. Pieced a quilt - I don't know what that means.
73. Stood in Times Square - No
74. Toured the Everglades - No
75. Been fired from a job - No, left by mutual agreement once but never fired.
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London - No
77. Broken a bone - No
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle - Yes
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person - No
80. Published a book - No, I wish
81. Visited the Vatican - No
82. Bought a brand new car - Yes, 3 times so far
83. Walked in Jerusalem - No
84. Had your picture in the newspaper - Yes, at least 3 times
85. Read the entire Bible - Yes
86. Visited the White House - No
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating - Do fish count? No, I could never kill an animal.
88. Had chickenpox - Yes
89. Saved someones life - I called 911 once because an older lady fainted in the street, that's about as close as I've come.
90. Sat on a jury - No
91. Met someone famous - Yes, Jonathon Winters and Robert Downey Jr.
92. Joined a book club - No but I'm looking for one. Maybe even start an online club.
93. Lost a loved one more times than I wanted - Yes
94. Had a baby - Three
95. Seen the Alamo in person - No
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake - No
97. Been involved in a law suit - Yes
98. Owned a cell phone - Yes
99. Been stung by a bee - Yeah
100. Read an entire book in one day - Yes, often

There Are 0 Gaps in Your Knowledge

Where you have gaps in your knowledge:

No Gaps!

Where you don't have gaps in your knowledge:

Philosophy

Religion

Economics

Literature

History

Science

Art

Do You Have Gaps in Your Knowledge?

My First Tutorial

2008-12-10T14:41:00.000-08:00

This is my first ever attempt at writing a tutorial so, please, be kind.

We will be making this scalloped circle...

Supplies needed ~
Paint Shop Pro (I use PSP 9, you can d/l a free trial of PSP X2 *here*
Mura’s Meister Copies ~ download *here*

Let’s begin ~
Remember to always save often!

Open a 500 by 500 transparent canvas.
Flood fill with white.

With foreground color closed off and background color set to #c0c0c0, using your preset tool set at eclipse and ‘create on vector’ (while holding the shift key down) draw out a 25 by 25 a circle.

Center circle.
Go to ~
Objects-align-center in canvas
Right click on your vector layer-convert to Raster layer

Using your eclipse tool again, with color #808080, draw a 10 by 10 circle.

Center circle.
Objects-align-center in canvas
Right click on your vector layer-convert to Raster layer
Go to selections-select all-float-defloat
Go to your layers-click raster 1-hit delete on your keyboard
Click on raster 2-right click-click delete
Selections-select none

Go to Mura’s Meister-Copies with these settings ~
Encircle
Circle
Number - 8
Shift X - 12
Shift Y - 12
All else - default

Back to the eclipse tool and color #c0c0c0, draw out a 50 by 50 circle

Center circle
Objects-align-center
Right click on vector 1-convert to raster layer
Right click on Raster 2-Merge-Merge down

Go to Mura’s Meister-Copies with these settings
Number - 20
Shift X - 75
Shift Y - 75
Leave all the other setting as they are

Back to the eclipse tool and color #c0c0c0, draw out a 405 by 405 circle

Center circle
Objects-align-center
Right click on vector 1-convert to raster layer
Right click on Raster 2-Merge-Merge down

And there you have it..
Save it as a psp image or psd and use it as your template.